BCCI Fines Rajasthan Royals Manager Romi Bhinder for Dugout Phone Breach in IPL 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has fined Romi Bhinder, team manager of the Rajasthan Royals, ₹1 lakh for violating anti-corruption protocols during the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season.

The penalty was imposed after Bhinder was seen using a mobile phone inside the dugout during Rajasthan’s match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati. The act breached the league’s Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, which strictly prohibit the use of communication devices in restricted zones during matches to safeguard the integrity of the game.

Following the incident, the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) issued a show-cause notice seeking an explanation from Bhinder. While he responded to the notice, the explanation was deemed unsatisfactory by the board, prompting disciplinary action.

Despite the breach, the BCCI treated the matter as a first-time offence and opted for a monetary fine rather than harsher punishment such as suspension. Bhinder has also been issued a warning and advised to strictly adhere to the league’s code of conduct moving forward.

The incident had drawn attention after visuals of Bhinder using the phone circulated widely, raising concerns about possible violations of anti-corruption safeguards. However, the board found no evidence of malicious intent or involvement in any wrongdoing beyond the procedural lapse. Bhinder, who has been associated with Rajasthan Royals since the early years of the IPL, is expected to continue in his role. The franchise, meanwhile, is likely to face increased scrutiny to ensure compliance with tournament regulations.