BCCI imposed heavy fine on Riyan Parag due to vaping controversy during the match between PBKS and RR in IPL 2026. Read
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The season of has come into controversy after a code of conduct violation by one of its most prominent stars. Riyan ParagWho Rajasthan Royals is the captain of, Punjab Kings He has been fined 25 per cent of his match fee after he was caught on camera vaping in the dressing room during a high-stakes clash against Maharaja Yadwinder Singh at the International Cricket Stadium, Mallanpur.
The incident occurred during the second innings on Tuesday night (April 28), was broadcast briefly and then picked up on social media, prompting debate over the professionalism of the athletes and the sanctity of the dressing room.
Riyan Parag will have to pay a heavy price for infamy during PBKS vs RR
Under the current financial structure of the IPL, a 25 per cent fine for a player like Parag is no small deal. With a huge contract of ₹14 crore for the 2026 season, Parag’s per match earnings are around ₹1 crore. As a result, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a fine of ₹25 lakh for their lapse in judgment.
While this penalty is significant for a first-time offence, the BCCI’s decision to classify it under a Level 1 offense reflects a desire to deliver a stern warning, without any multi-match ban. According to the official notice issued on the morning of April 30, Parag was charged under Article 2.1 and Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct.
Since the rules do not explicitly mention vaping or smoking within the dressing room, the match referee Amit Sharma Implemented Article 2.21, which is a blanket provision. This article is designed to address conduct that “brings the game into disrepute” and includes:
- acts of public misconduct
- uncontrolled behavior
- Activities detrimental to the interests of cricket
Apart from the financial penalty, Parag has also received one demerit point. The BCCI confirmed that the player admitted the offense and accepted the punishment, deciding to quickly move past the incident while waiving his right to a formal hearing.
Setting an example with RR captain in the digital age
BCCI is taking this matter seriously so that the family image of IPL can be maintained without tarnishing it. In a formal statement, the board noted that it “Is exploring other options to take strict action against the errant team and officials” So that such incidents can be prevented in future.
The dressing room is traditionally considered a sacred space in cricket, and the visibility of e-cigarettes in such a high-performance environment has attracted criticism from experienced players and fans. Rajasthan Royals For the likes, who are currently competing for a top-four spot, this deviation comes at a sensitive time. While Parag is eligible to lead his team in the upcoming fixtures, the focus will certainly be on his conduct as the tournament reaches its crucial stage.
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