New Delhi, April 12 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has launched a formal inquiry into the Rajasthan Royals (RR) team manager, Romi Bhinder, who was seen using a mobile device in the dugout during the IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) held in Guwahati. The occurrence was captured live by television cameras at the ACA Stadium, revealing Bhinder utilizing a phone while seated beside the young left-handed opener, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who appeared to be observing the screen. This footage has rapidly circulated online, provoking scrutiny concerning a potential violation of the league's stringent anti-corruption regulations.

As per the IPL’s Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA), while a Team Manager is permitted to use a mobile phone in the dressing room, it is strictly prohibited in the dugout. Saikia confirmed to IANS on Sunday that the BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) is actively investigating the specifics of the incident.

"In accordance with PMOA guidelines, certain personnel, including the team manager, are allowed to carry mobile devices. However, we must thoroughly assess whether the phone was taken into an appropriate area and if permission was obtained," Saikia stated.

"We are verifying if any protocols or regulations under the existing IPL rules have been breached during this incident. As we speak, the investigation process is already underway.

“The ACU is examining whether Bhinder had the phone in the designated area or elsewhere. Following a review of the evidence, a report will be compiled,” Saikia added.

According to tournament regulations, two BCCI Anti-Corruption Managers appointed by the Head of the BCCI Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) are tasked with overseeing the PMOA, ensuring that proper protocols are upheld and that security personnel are well-informed.

With RR scheduled to compete against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, it remains uncertain if Bhinder will be present in the PMOA area. Bhinder has been a key figure in RR's backroom since 2008 and also serves as Sooryavanshi's 'local guardian' during the IPL.

"The phone should only be utilized in emergencies. Observing that screengrab, it appears he may have been browsing something, potentially using Google or checking social media platforms like WhatsApp or Instagram.

"The anti-corruption unit could access the phone’s data from that time for a thorough investigation, even questioning the player regarding what he was viewing on the device.

"If the ACU officers and match referee in Guwahati find that Bhinder acted without suspicious intent, he may simply receive a warning, or the franchise could face a fine ranging from 10-20% of their earnings,” stated a source familiar with the PMOA and ACU workings to IANS.