IPL 2026: BCCI fines Riyan Parag’s viral dressing room vaping clip during PBKS vs RR clash

Despite the success and joy of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against the Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, it wasn’t a great situation for the franchise, especially their captain. 

Riyan Parag was seen vaping live on camera as the video went viral on social media platforms. He was seen to be using the illegal e-cigarettes in the dressing room during the Royals’ 223-run chase against the Kings.  

BCCI takes action after Riyan Parag controversy grabs headlines

The Rajasthan Royals' captain has been fined 25% of his match fee for his smoking act, which was deemed to have brought the game into disrepute. The statement has revealed that the BCCI charged him with a Level 1 offence under Article 2.1 of the Player Code of Conduct (COC), which deals with general and other breaches of players and officials.

Given his INR 14 contract for the season, his per-match fee will be around INR 1 crore, which means 25% cut will take out nearly INR 25 lakh. It has been deemed a first-time offence.

“Article 2.21 is intended to cover all types of conduct that bring the game into disrepute and which is not specifically or adequately covered by the specific offences set out in the COC.” The record noted.

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“By way of example, Article 2.21 may (depending upon the seriousness and context of the breach) prohibit, without limitation, the following: (a) public acts of misconduct; (b) unruly public behaviour; and (c) inappropriate comments which are detrimental to the interests of the game.” It added.

Incident during Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals match sparks debate

The report has claimed that Parag was served the notice on the morning of April 30. He will have every right to appeal, which could lead to an investigation and potential proceedings.

“When assessing the seriousness of the offence, the context of the particular situation, and whether it was deliberate, reckless, negligent, avoidable, and/or accidental, shall be considered. Further, the person lodging the Report shall determine where on the range of severity the conduct lies (with the range of severity starting at conduct of a minor nature up to conduct of an extremely serious nature (and hence a Level 4 Offence).” It is also mentioned by the IPL council. 

The above-discussed article has been applied by the match referee, who has announced the fine. But there has been no information on any hearing, though.

Fans react as disciplinary step fuels wider discussion

Here is how the fans have reacted to the fine on Parag during the IPL 2026-