New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made strict rules for IPL 2026. The Anti Corruption Unit (ACU) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a complete ban on the use of smart sunglasses in the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA). Violators may face heavy fines.
Why were smart sunglasses banned?
According to BCCI, these smart goggles allow live streaming, video calling, audio calling and sending and receiving messages through mobile data or Wi-Fi. ACU has placed them in both ‘audio/video recording devices’ and ‘communication devices’ categories. Some companies were selling these goggles to players and support staff, after which BCCI had to take strict action.
New instructions for players and staff
BCCI has instructed all players and support staff to deposit the smart sunglasses with the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) while entering the PMOA on the match day. Along with mobile phones and smartwatches, these goggles will also have to be deposited. If any player or staff member does not submit these, it will be considered a violation of PMOA protocol and a fine will be imposed.
RR manager has already been fined
This season, Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder was fined Rs 1 lakh for using a phone in the dugout during the Guwahati match. He was also warned. BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia had said that his explanation was not satisfactory.
Why did BCCI tighten the rules?
This year BCCI has taken many strict steps regarding discipline and security in IPL. Restrictions have also been imposed on making reels by players, unlimited access to social media influencers, inviting guests in hotel rooms etc. The board is also alert about the possibility of ‘honey trap’ and match fixing.
BCCI says that this step is necessary to maintain the safety of the players and the sanctity of the match. With the new rule, players and team management will have to take precautions on match days, otherwise they may have to face heavy penalties.
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