“Why fine only…” – Lalit Modi questions BCCI after Romi Bhinder penalty in IPL 2026
Lalit Modi criticizes BCCI after Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder fined ₹1 lakh for using phone in dugout during IPL 2026 clash vs RCB.
Be a winner today!
Get the latest cricket updates, Join our community
The dugout phone controversy which occurred during IPL 2026 began a major dispute after BCCI imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder because he broke match-day rules. The incident occurred when Bhinder used a mobile phone in the dugout during the Guwahati match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru which serves as a restricted area according to anti-corruption rules.
The BCCI Anti-Corruption Unit conducted an investigation which found Bhinder's explanation to be inadequate as evidence. The board imposed a fine on him with a final warning because he avoided suspension while they stressed that all personnel must adhere to Players and Match Officials Area PMOA rules without exception.
Lalit Modi slams BCCI’s ‘zero tolerance’ stance over dugout breach
The former IPL chairman Lalit Modi reacted strongly to the decision because he doubted the board's decision to show leniency. Modi used social media to explain that a fine does not represent a zero tolerance policy because he believed the violator should receive stronger punishment that included a possible ban.
His comments have triggered mixed reactions among fans and experts. Some people believe that first-time offenders should receive warnings and fines while others support Modi's view that tournament integrity needs stricter enforcement to avoid establishing a weak standard.
Romi Bhinder fined for phone use during RR vs RCB clash
The Barsapara Cricket Stadium witnessed a breach of rules when Bhinder used his mobile phone during the match which was shown on live television. The IPL regulations prohibit players from using mobile phones in dugouts because these devices enable unauthorized contact which threatens the fairness of the game.
The BCCI established that all individuals must follow the established rules despite reports about health reasons which supposedly caused the operational breakdown. The board also indicated that any future breaches could result in harsher penalties. The incident has demonstrated that anti-corruption rules must be followed exactly in major tournaments like the IPL because even small violations create major security problems.
Tags:
