Watch: ‘Players should be careful’ — Anil Chaudhary reacts to Riyan Parag’s viral dressing room clip

Former international umpire Anil Chaudhary has reacted to the controversy involving Riyan Parag after a dressing room clip from IPL 2026 went viral on social media. The incident has sparked discussion among fans and experts about player behaviour during high-profile matches.

Speaking on the matter, Chaudhary said that players should be careful about their actions, as cameras are present everywhere during such tournaments. He highlighted that even small moments can be recorded and shared widely, making it important for players to stay disciplined at all times.

The viral clip has once again brought attention to the responsibilities of modern-day cricketers. With the IPL being watched by millions, players are expected to maintain professional conduct both on and off the field.

Watch the viral video here:

Anil Chaudhary issues caution as Riyan Parag video sparks controversy

The alleged vaping incident involving Riyan Parag, captain of Rajasthan Royals, during an Indian Premier League 2026 match against Punjab Kings has drawn reactions from across the cricketing fraternity, including former international umpire Anil Chaudhary. The controversy began after broadcast visuals appeared to show Parag using a vape device inside the team dressing room, with the clip quickly going viral on social media.

The incident has triggered widespread debate over player conduct, professionalism, and potential legal implications, especially considering India’s strict regulations on e-cigarettes. The viral nature of the footage has intensified scrutiny, with fans and experts questioning the appropriateness of such behaviour during a high-profile tournament like the IPL.

Reacting to the situation, Chaudhary described the matter primarily as administrative rather than something he could comment on from a legal perspective. “I think it is an administrative issue, and I do not know the legal aspects, but certainly government rules and other regulations will be there,” he said, suggesting that any action would depend on existing policies and guidelines.

He also highlighted the growing presence of cameras in modern cricket broadcasts, urging players to remain cautious at all times. “Sometimes these cameras can go anywhere, so all players should be very careful. These are young lads; they do not know that sometimes they can be caught anywhere except the toilet, so boys should be careful,” Chaudhary added, stressing the importance of awareness and discipline.

Addressing the broader conversation, Chaudhary noted that cricket coverage should ideally remain focused on the game itself rather than off-field controversies. “I think on TV, good things should be shown, and we should discuss the game rather than other things,” he remarked, echoing the view that such incidents can divert attention from on-field performances.

See also -IPL 2026: ‘Seek an explanation’ — Board of Control for Cricket in India reacts to Riyan Parag’s viral dressing room clip

BCCI reacts to Parag's viral vaping clip

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded to the viral videos circulating on social media that allegedly show Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag vaping inside the dressing room during an Indian Premier League 2026 match. The footage, captured during the live broadcast when cameras briefly focused on the dressing room, quickly sparked widespread debate online regarding player conduct.

The incident has now drawn official attention, with a BCCI board member confirming that Parag will be asked to provide an explanation before any further action is taken. “He will be asked to explain the issue, as vaping is not allowed. Depending on his explanation, the IPL will take further course of action,” a BCCI source told The Indian Express, indicating that the matter is currently under review.

From a performance standpoint, Parag has endured a challenging IPL 2026 season so far. The 24-year-old has managed just 117 runs in nine innings, averaging below 15 with a strike rate of 124.47, and a highest score of 29, yet to register a half-century in the tournament.

Following internal review, the board imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on the player for breaching IPL regulations. The BCCI had also directed its Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) to look into the matter, although no major security concerns were reported. The incident was ultimately treated as a violation of the BCCI’s IPL PMOA (Player Match Officials Area) protocols during the game.