New Chandigarh: Riyan Parag has landed in controversy after a video appearing to show him vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room went viral during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Punjab Kings.
The incident occurred during the 16th over of the second innings when a broadcast camera briefly captured Parag holding what appeared to be a vape device. The footage quickly spread across social media, drawing strong reactions from fans and raising questions over player conduct.
Viral moment sparks debate
The controversy intensified as the clip surfaced shortly after Parag’s dismissal. The 24-year-old scored 29 runs off 16 balls but failed to carry on at a crucial stage of the chase, adding to scrutiny around his performance and behaviour.
While the visuals remain brief, they were enough to trigger widespread discussion online, with many calling for clarity and possible disciplinary action.
BCCI rules and possible action
Although vaping is not always explicitly mentioned in cricket regulations, the Board of Control for Cricket in India enforces strict guidelines regarding player behaviour inside stadium premises.
Use of tobacco or related products is generally prohibited in dressing rooms and dugouts under health and safety norms. If the act is confirmed, Parag could face disciplinary measures from the board.
Leadership pressure and form concerns
The incident comes at a challenging time for Parag, who is leading Rajasthan Royals this season following Sanju Samson’s move to the Chennai Super Kings.
On the field, Parag has struggled for consistency, scoring just 81 runs in seven innings prior to this match. His form has been under scrutiny from fans and former cricketers, adding pressure to his leadership role.
Rajasthan Royals secure win
Despite the off-field distraction, Rajasthan Royals delivered a strong performance, successfully chasing down a target of 222 runs with six wickets in hand. The victory handed Punjab Kings their first defeat of the IPL 2026 season.
Earlier disciplinary incident
The latest controversy follows another recent breach involving the franchise. Team manager Romi Bhinder was fined ₹1 lakh and issued a warning for using a mobile phone inside the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati earlier this month.
The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) had also issued a show-cause notice to Bhinder, highlighting the board’s strict enforcement of rules within match environments.
Conclusion
With the video continuing to circulate online, attention is now on whether the BCCI will take action against Riyan Parag. The incident has once again spotlighted the importance of discipline and professionalism in high-profile tournaments like the IPL, where even brief moments can lead to major controversies.