IPL 2026: Is the manager of Rajasthan Royals in trouble? BCCI’s clarification on using phones in the dugout

News India Live, Digital Desk: A photo of Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder has created controversy amid the strict protocols of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the viral picture, Bhinder was seen using the phone in the dugout during the match against Gujarat Titans. Since the use of communication devices in the dugout during matches is prohibited under anti-corruption rules, there were speculations that they might be banned. But now there has been a new twist in this matter.

What is ‘mobile dispute’ and what do the rules say?

As per the anti-corruption rules of ICC and BCCI, players and support staff have to surrender their mobile phones even before the start of the match. This rule has been made to stop activities like betting and match fixing. Only authorized ‘walk-in-talkie’ use is permitted.

Why will no action be taken against Romi Bhinder?

According to sources, BCCI may take a soft stance in this matter because:

Official Discount: Team managers are often given special permission for administrative tasks and emergency communications.

Logistics and emergency: The manager’s work is not limited to sports only, but he also has to handle logistics and situations like medical emergencies, which may require a call.

No intention of corruption: BCCI’s initial investigation has not revealed any indication that the phone was used for any suspicious activity.

Such controversies have happened before too

This is not the first time that the issue of mobile phones has arisen in the dugout.

Ambati Rayudu (2020): A phone was once seen in the dugout of Mumbai Indians, on which there was a lot of discussion.

Chennai Super Kings: Officials have also been seen using phones at times in the CSK dugout, but they often seek prior permission from the BCCI.

rajasthan royals status

Rajasthan Royals are currently in a strong position in the points table of IPL 2026. The team management has not made any official statement on the issue, but insiders say that Bhinder was using the device only for official purposes.