IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals manager fined ₹1 lakh for phone use in dugout during RCB clash

The Rajasthan Royals faced trouble during IPL 2026 after their team manager was fined ₹1 lakh for breaking match rules. The incident happened during a game when the manager was seen using a mobile phone in the team dugout, which is not allowed.

The Indian Premier League has strict rules about using phones and other devices in the dugout. These rules are made to keep the game fair and avoid any outside communication during matches. After the incident, officials took quick action and gave the fine.

This situation shows that the league is serious about its rules. All teams and staff members are expected to follow them properly. It also sends a clear message that even small mistakes will not be ignored during IPL 2026.

Romi Bhinder penalised for breaching IPL anti-corruption protocol

Rajasthan Royals team manager Ravinder Bhinder, also known as Romi Bhinder, has been fined ₹1 lakh for breaching official protocols during IPL 2026. The incident took place during RR’s match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, where he was seen using a mobile phone in the team dugout. 

Although he was cleared of any corruption-related charges, he was found to have violated operational guidelines. According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the breach falls under Article 4.1.1 of the IPL PMOA protocols, which clearly restricts the use of electronic devices in the dugout during matches. The rule is in place to ensure fair play and prevent any unauthorised communication during the game.

Bhinder admitted to the mistake and issued an unconditional apology for his actions. As it was his first offence under these rules, he was fined ₹1 lakh as per Article 7.42(a) of the guidelines. He has also been officially warned to be more careful in the future and to strictly follow all match-day protocols.

See also -

Why use of mobile phones is banned in team dugout

The Indian Premier League follows strict rules regarding the use of mobile phones in match areas under the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area). While some officials, like team managers, are allowed to carry phones in the dressing room, using them in the dugout during a match is not allowed. An IPL official stated that the rules are very clear, and using a phone in the dugout is considered a serious violation, especially when players can see the screen.

The PMOA includes important areas such as dressing rooms, dugouts, viewing zones, the third umpire room, and other restricted spaces decided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). These rules are managed by the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), which ensures that no outside communication affects the game. Players and support staff must submit their phones before the match and can only take them back after it ends.

Only a few authorised officials are allowed to carry phones, but even they cannot use them in the dugout during the match. These rules are in place to maintain fair play, avoid any form of misuse, and protect the integrity of the game. The recent incident has once again highlighted the importance of following these guidelines strictly.

BCCI issues strict warning to avoid future violations

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a clear warning following the incident, asking all teams and support staff to strictly follow the set protocols. The board has stressed that such violations will not be taken lightly in the future and could lead to stricter action if repeated. Officials have also reminded franchises to ensure that everyone in the dugout and restricted areas follows the rules properly to maintain discipline and the integrity of the game.