The Rajasthan Royals (RR) have found themselves in the middle of a procedural storm as team manager Romi Bhinder faces a potential ban from the dugout.
The controversy erupted after visuals of Bhinder using a mobile phone in the team dugout during their IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Guwahati went viral. Adding to the concern, young RR batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was also spotted looking at the screen.
The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has reportedly launched a formal investigation into the matter. Under the Minimum Standards for Players and Match Officials Areas (PMOA), strict protocols govern the use of communication devices.
While a team manager is one of the few officials permitted to carry a phone for administrative duties, its usage is strictly restricted to the dressing room and is generally prohibited within the dugout to prevent any potential communication with outside parties during play.
Medical Emergency vs. Protocol
In defense of Bhinder, reports have emerged citing a medical emergency as the reason for the phone’s presence. Sources close to the team indicated that Bhinder recently suffered a severe health crisis, including collapsed lungs that required ventilator support.
Health Precaution: Bhinder has reportedly lost over 10 kg and suffers from chronic asthma. The phone was allegedly kept as a precautionary measure to contact medical staff if his condition deteriorated in the humid Guwahati heat.
BCCI Response: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that while managers can carry phones, the location and nature of the usage are being examined. “We need to thoroughly examine where exactly the event happened and whether the phone was used [for prohibited reasons],” Saikia stated.
Uncertainty Ahead of SRH Clash
As Rajasthan Royals prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) tonight, it remains unclear if Bhinder will be permitted to take his usual spot in the restricted dugout area. The investigation aims to determine if the interaction with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi constituted a technical breach of the anti-corruption code, even if the intentions were purely medical or accidental.
The incident comes at a time when the BCCI has tightened field access, restricting it to only 16 players, with all other support staff required to adhere strictly to PMOA guidelines to maintain the integrity of the game.