Rajasthan Royals Manager Fined Over Dugout Phone Use in IPL 2026
Synopsis
In a notable incident during IPL 2026, Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder received a fine of Rs 1 lakh and a warning for using his mobile phone in the dugout. This violation raises questions about adherence to IPL protocols. The team seeks to uphold integrity as they prepare for their next match.
Key Takeaways
Romi Bhinder fined Rs 1 lakh for protocol violation.
Mobile phone use in the dugout is prohibited under IPL rules.
Incident occurred during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
BCCI emphasizes strict adherence to IPL PMOA protocols.
RR is in third place in the points table.
New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) The manager of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), Romi Bhinder, has been penalized with a fine of Rs 1 lakh and issued a formal warning due to his use of a mobile phone in the dugout during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati.
The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the BCCI has sent a show-cause notice to Bhinder regarding the use of a mobile device during the game, and has requested his explanation within 48 hours.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the ACSU found Bhinder's response unsatisfactory, resulting in the fine and warning for breaching regulations.
“This infraction occurred during the match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where our anti-corruption unit in Guwahati noted the violation and issued a notice for explanation on April 12. He was allowed 48 hours to respond because Romi Bhinder was observed carrying his mobile into the dugout area,” Saikia stated.
“He is permitted to have a mobile phone but cannot bring it into the dugout area. An explanation was sought, and Romi Bhinder complied within the designated 48 hours. However, the anti-corruption unit reviewed his response and deemed it inadequate.”
“Taking into account that this is his first violation of the IPL PMOA protocols, the anti-corruption unit decided to impose a fine of Rs 1 lakh and issued a cautionary warning to prevent future violations,” Saikia informed IANS on Friday.
According to the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) guidelines available on the IPL’s official website, “The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.”
Bhinder has been a part of RR since the league began in 2008 and also acts as a local guardian for Sooryavanshi, aged 15. He was previously associated with the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants during RR's ban from the competition in the 2016 and 2017 seasons.
“On behalf of the BCCI, I would like to emphasize that we hope this serves as a warning to all parties involved in the IPL to strictly comply with the rules and uphold the integrity of the IPL PMOA protocols,” added Saikia.
Currently, RR, the champions of IPL 2008, holds the third position in the points table and is set to face three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata this Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the fine imposed on Romi Bhinder?
Romi Bhinder was fined for using a mobile phone in the dugout during an IPL match, which is against the protocols.
What is the amount of the fine?
Romi Bhinder has been fined Rs 1 lakh.
What are the PMOA guidelines regarding mobile phone use?
According to PMOA guidelines, a Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.
When did this incident occur?
The incident occurred during the IPL 2026 match on April 10 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
What position is Rajasthan Royals currently in the points table?
Rajasthan Royals are currently in the third position in the IPL points table.
