Riyan Parag vaping row: Anil Chaudhary warns young cricketers on conduct during IPL 2026
Synopsis
Riyan Parag's alleged vaping during an IPL 2026 match has triggered a conduct debate in Indian cricket. Former umpire Anil Chaudhary's warning underscores a hard reality: in the age of stadium cameras, every moment is public. With vaping illegal under Indian law and BCCI dressing-room protocols strict, Parag faces potential disciplinary consequences.
Key Takeaways
Riyan Parag , Rajasthan Royals captain, was allegedly caught vaping during an IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings on 29 April .
Former umpire Anil Chaudhary warned young cricketers to be cautious of camera visibility during high-profile tournaments.
Vaping is illegal under India's Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019 , with penalties including imprisonment and fines.
The BCCI has strict health and safety protocols prohibiting tobacco and related products in dressing rooms and dugouts.
Parag potentially faces disciplinary action from the board for breach of conduct guidelines.
Former international umpire Anil Chaudhary has issued a cautionary statement to young cricketers on maintaining discipline during high-profile tournaments, following widespread social media scrutiny after Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was allegedly caught vaping on camera during his side's IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings on 29 April.
The incident occurred during the 16th over of RR's chase when television cameras captured a moment in the dressing room where Parag appeared to be using a vape device while seated near Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Kuldeep Sen. The footage quickly circulated on social platforms, igniting discussions about player conduct standards and regulatory compliance.
What Anil Chaudhary said
Speaking to IANS on the sidelines of the EUT20 Belgium jersey launch, Chaudhary stressed the visibility risks players face in modern cricket. "I do not know the legal aspects, but certainly, government rules and other regulations will be there. 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. I think on TV, good things should be shown, and we should discuss the game rather than other things," he said.
Legal framework around vaping in India
Under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019, the production, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertisement of e-cigarettes and vapes are prohibited across India. Violations carry imprisonment and substantial financial penalties. The legislation does not distinguish between public and private spaces, making the use of such devices illegal regardless of context.
BCCI's stance on player conduct
While the BCCI has not issued a formal public statement on vaping specifically, the board maintains strict behavioural guidelines for players within stadium premises. Tobacco and related products are generally prohibited in dressing rooms and dugouts under health and safety protocols. Parag's actions potentially breach these internal regulations, exposing him to disciplinary action from the board.
Broader implications for IPL 2026
This incident highlights the intersection of legal compliance, player conduct, and media scrutiny in modern cricket. With stadium cameras capturing every moment, athletes at all levels face heightened accountability for off-field behaviour during matches. The episode underscores the need for clearer communication between governing bodies and players on permissible conduct within tournament venues.
Point of View
But the underlying message is sharp: in modern cricket, privacy is a myth, and conduct standards are non-negotiable. The BCCI's silence so far is notable; if it does not act, it signals that enforcement is selective.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Riyan Parag vaping incident during IPL 2026?
On 29 April, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was allegedly caught using a vape device on camera during the 16th over of his side's IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings. The footage, captured in the dressing room, went viral on social media, sparking debates on player conduct and legal compliance.
Is vaping legal in India?
No. Vaping and the use of e-cigarettes are illegal under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019. The law prohibits production, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertisement of such devices, with violations carrying imprisonment and substantial fines.
What did Anil Chaudhary say about the incident?
Former umpire Anil Chaudhary warned young cricketers to be careful about their conduct during high-profile tournaments, noting that modern stadium cameras capture moments everywhere. He stressed that players should be aware they can be filmed at any time and should maintain discipline.
Could Riyan Parag face BCCI action?
Yes. While the BCCI has not issued a formal statement, the board has strict health and safety protocols prohibiting tobacco and related products in dressing rooms and dugouts. Parag's alleged actions potentially breach these internal regulations, exposing him to disciplinary measures.
Why is this incident significant for IPL 2026?
The incident highlights the intersection of legal compliance, player conduct, and media scrutiny in modern cricket. It underscores the need for clearer communication between governing bodies and players on permissible conduct within tournament venues and the legal framework they must follow.
