IPL 2026 Controversy: Romi Bhinder Under Scanner
BCCI has started an investigation into RR team manager Romi Bhinder for using a mobile phone. While sitting next to a RR opening batsman during an IPL 2026 match at Guwahati against RCB. The incident received wide coverage on live television. It is generating discussion amongst the sports media regarding the potential breach of the IPL anti-corruption framework.
How did it go down?
Images of Bhinder at the match show him seated close to RR’s young opening batsman, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Both were viewing a mobile phone together. The photos went viral on social media immediately and the questions began circulating on the use of a mobile phone in the dugout will infringe upon league rules.
Under IPL Rule 51.5(a) related to the PMOA, mobile phones may be possessed by certain official personnel (including team managers). But only in authorized locations (i.e. in the dressing room). Mobile phones are not to be possessed in the dugout unless authorized by the IPL.
ACU has initiated a formal investigation into this matter. They are trying to determine whether or not Bhinder may have breached league rules by using a mobile phone. While present in a prohibited area and/or having not received prior approval.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said that this investigation is to find out the area. There he is using the phone and how it complies with the current IPL regulations.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, “The Anti-Corruption Unit will review all of the available evidence, create an official report under prescribed procedures, and submit it to me.”
The Rules Regarding Phone Use in IPL
The IPL’s strict anti-corruption regulations help to prevent any type of misconduct or improper communications during games. Each area named “Critical Zones” (Dugout & Locker Room) will have a minimum of two Anti-Corruption Managers present to ensure that all parties comply with the rules.
Use of phones is allowed in very limited circumstances and for emergencies. In the very small areas described above, those persons may use phones inside of those designated areas.
A person who does not remain in compliance with the approved uses of phones could face disciplinary action.
What Could Happen to RR?
If RR, if found to have violated any part of the Anti-Corruption Regulations, could be given a warning or fined an amount of cash. Previous reports indicate that if RR incurs violations of the Anti-Corruption Rules, they could expect to be fined 10 % to 20% of their revenue.
If ACU finds no evidence of suspicious activity, illegal or improper communications, or illegal use of data by Bhinder. Also, some of the serious charges made against him could be dismissed.
In the upcoming match between Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, all eyes will be on Bhinder and how long he can keep his spot (as an unlimited player). The outcome will largely depend on the report from ACU.
Therefore, the ongoing investigation means that this is the sports news headlines today and demonstrates the need for strict compliance with anti-corruption regulations in one of the largest cricket exhibitions in the world.
