BCCI Cracks Down: New IPL Protocols Amid Vaping and Honey Trap Risks
A New Era of Discipline in the IPL
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long stood as the pinnacle of professional T20 cricket, yet recent events during the 2026 season have forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take drastic action. Following a series of protocol breaches that threatened the professional image of the league, the BCCI has issued a comprehensive seven-page document outlining a final warning to all franchises, players, and support staff. The message from the board is clear: the current standards must be upheld, or violators will face severe consequences, including suspension and potential legal action.
The Catalyst for Change: Recent Controversies
The urgency behind this directive stems from two specific incidents involving the Rajasthan Royals. During a match against the Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was observed vaping in the dressing room—an act that falls strictly outside the bounds of acceptable conduct. Simultaneously, members of the team’s support staff were caught using mobile phones in the dugout, a direct violation of tournament protocols designed to prevent unauthorized communication and potential betting-related risks.
These actions did not go unpunished. Team manager Romi Bhinder was fined INR 1 lakh for the mobile phone breach, while Riyan Parag faced a penalty of 25 percent of his match fee for the vaping incident. These events served as a wake-up call for the BCCI, prompting a total ban on the use of vapes and e-cigarettes at all match venues.
The Growing Threat of Honey Traps
Perhaps the most significant aspect of the BCCI’s new communication is the explicit warning regarding honey traps. The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has identified that players are increasingly vulnerable to unauthorized access from external individuals. Concerns have been raised regarding social media influencers, acquaintances, and friends gaining access to team buses and private hotel rooms.
The board believes these lapses in security pose a massive risk to the high-profile nature of the IPL. Unauthorized individuals near the players could lead to extortion, blackmail, or the leaking of sensitive information—such as team combinations and strategic plans—before the matches even begin. To mitigate these risks, the BCCI is shifting from a relaxed environment to a highly monitored, security-first approach.
New IPL Operations Task Force and Protocol Enforcement
To ensure these new rules are not just suggestions but mandates, the BCCI is establishing a joint IPL Operations Task Force. This body will be responsible for inspecting restricted zones and hotel accommodations. Key aspects of the updated Code of Conduct include:
- Room Access: No outsiders are permitted in player rooms without the explicit approval of the Team Manager.
- Interaction Zones: All meetings with guests must take place in designated hotel lobbies or lounges, ensuring that interactions are visible and monitored.
- Movement Restrictions: Both players and support staff must obtain permission from security liaison officers before leaving the team hotel.
- Dugout Discipline: Mobile phones are strictly prohibited in the dugout, and team owners are barred from interacting with players during the course of a match.
- Mandatory Identification: Accreditation badges must be worn at all times within hotels, venues, and during practice sessions.
Accountability for Franchises
The BCCI has made it clear that the burden of responsibility lies with the franchises. If a player or staff member is found in breach of these rules, the team will be held accountable. Every franchise has been instructed to hold an internal meeting within 48 hours of receiving the directive, and every individual must provide written confirmation that they have read and understood the new protocols.
As BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized, the franchises must remain proactive. Any breach is expected to be reported to the IPL Operations Team immediately. By fostering a culture of accountability and heightened security, the board hopes to preserve the integrity and reputation of the league, ensuring that the focus of the IPL remains on the cricket rather than off-field distractions.
