New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a notice to a Rajasthan Royals official over an alleged breach of anti-corruption protocols during a recent Indian Premier League match.
According to reports, Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder has been asked to explain his conduct after he was seen using a mobile phone in the team dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
ACSU begins investigation
The matter has been referred to the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), which is responsible for monitoring adherence to strict anti-corruption guidelines in the league.
Bhinder has reportedly been given 48 hours to respond to the notice and clarify why he was using a phone in the dugout — an action that is typically restricted under IPL regulations.
IPL Governing Council chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that the ACSU has been asked to investigate and submit a detailed report on the incident.
Video triggers scrutiny
The issue came to light after a video surfaced on social media showing Bhinder using his phone while seated in the dugout, reportedly next to young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The visuals quickly went viral, prompting strong reactions from sections of the cricketing community, including former IPL chairman Lalit Modi, who called for strict action.
Medical angle under consideration
Reports suggest that Bhinder’s possession of the phone may be linked to medical reasons. He is said to have faced serious health issues in the past, including a lung condition, and has been advised to limit physical exertion.
Sources indicate that while he is permitted to carry a phone due to medical needs, active usage in the dugout remains a violation unless explicitly exempted.
It has also been clarified that Bhinder was not making or receiving calls at the time but was allegedly scrolling on his device.
Protocols and possible outcome
IPL anti-corruption rules allow certain accredited personnel to carry electronic devices under specific conditions, but their usage is tightly regulated to prevent any possibility of misuse or unauthorised communication.
The ACSU will now review Bhinder’s explanation along with all available evidence before arriving at a conclusion. His medical condition could be taken into account during the final decision.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the strict enforcement of anti-corruption protocols in the IPL, where even minor deviations are closely scrutinised. As the investigation unfolds, the BCCI’s response will underline the league’s zero-tolerance approach while balancing individual circumstances.