The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on Rajasthan Royals (RR) team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder, popularly known as Romi Bhinder, for breaching the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) Protocol during IPL 2026.
The incident occurred during Match 16 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on April 10, 2026. TV cameras captured Bhinder using his mobile phone in the team dugout, an area where electronic devices are strictly prohibited under BCCI’s anti-corruption guidelines.
What is the PMOA Protocol?
The PMOA Protocol 2026 forms part of the BCCI’s Minimum Standards for Players and Match Officials Areas. It strictly regulates the use of mobile phones and other electronic communication devices in designated zones, including dugouts, to prevent any potential external influence and maintain the integrity of the match.
Key rule (Article 4.1.1): Mobile phones are not allowed to be used in the PMOA. While the team manager may carry and use a phone in the dressing room, its use is explicitly banned in the dugout.
This protocol is a critical part of the league’s anti-corruption framework, enforced by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU).
Details of the Incident and BCCI Action
Bhinder was spotted scrolling on his phone while seated next to young RR batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during Rajasthan Royals’ batting innings. The footage quickly went viral on social media, prompting the ACSU to issue a show-cause notice.
In his response, Bhinder admitted the lapse, described it as inadvertent, and offered an unconditional apology. He also cited health reasons (Type 2 lung failure) in his explanation. The ACSU accepted his account, noting it was his first offence. As per Article 7.42(a) of the PMOA protocols, he was fined ₹1 lakh and issued a formal warning to exercise greater care in the future.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the board takes such breaches seriously.
Why This Matters for IPL 2026 and All Franchises
This case serves as a timely reminder to all IPL teams about strict compliance with dugout and anti-corruption protocols, especially during high-pressure matches when tensions run high.
- It reinforces the BCCI’s zero-tolerance approach toward any potential compromise of match integrity.
- The incident highlights how even support staff actions are under constant scrutiny via broadcast cameras.
- With the points table tightly contested in IPL 2026, such off-field lapses can divert focus from on-field performance.
Rajasthan Royals, who have a long-standing association with Bhinder (with him part of the franchise since 2008), have not issued an official comment beyond the BCCI statement.
BCCI’s Official Statement (Excerpt)
“Rajasthan Royals Team Manager, Ravinder Singh Bhinder, has been fined INR 1 Lakh for breaching the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols… He has also been warned to exercise greater care in the future and to adhere strictly to the established guidelines.”
No further sanctions were imposed, and Bhinder has been cleared of any anti-corruption code violation.
As the IPL 2026 season intensifies, franchises are expected to double down on internal briefings regarding PMOA rules to avoid similar penalties. This episode underscores that maintaining the highest standards of professionalism remains non-negotiable in the world’s biggest T20 league.
Stay updated with more IPL 2026 news, including match reports, points table updates, and protocol-related developments.
