IPL 2026 Controversy: RR Manager’s Dugout Mobile Use Sparks Debate During Match
- byPranay Jain
- 11 Apr, 2026
The Indian Premier League 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore may not have been a nail-biter on the field, but an off-field moment has now grabbed major attention. While Rajasthan comfortably chased down a 202-run target, a viral video from the match has triggered a fresh controversy.
The video, which surfaced on social media, shows young player Vaibhav Suryavanshi sitting in the Rajasthan dugout. Next to him, a team official—later identified as Ravinder Singh Bhinder (also known as Romi Bhinder)—can be seen using a mobile phone. This moment, captured from a TV broadcast, quickly went viral and raised questions about possible rule violations.
According to IPL and international cricket regulations, players, coaches, and support staff are generally not allowed to use mobile phones or electronic devices during a match in restricted areas like the dugout or field of play. Such rules are in place to maintain transparency and prevent any misuse of communication during games.
However, there is a small exception. The team manager is permitted to use a phone—but only inside the dressing room. The viral clip appears to show Bhinder using the device in the dugout, which falls outside the permitted area. This has led to speculation that a rule may have been breached.
The incident has now sparked debate among fans and experts, with many questioning whether the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take any action. While the video itself is genuine and from the match, the final decision will depend on how authorities interpret the situation and whether any official complaint is raised.
As of now, the focus has shifted from the match result to this unexpected controversy, highlighting how even small moments can create big headlines in high-profile tournaments like the IPL.





