A controversy erupted during the match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was seen using a mobile phone inside the team dugout while sitting beside young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The Royals defeated the Royal Challengers by six wickets at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Friday, April 10. They chased down the 202-run target with 12 balls to spare. Social media users questioned whether officials permit mobile phone use during live matches and demanded clarification from the BCCI.
Rajasthan Royals Manager Caught Using Phone Beside Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Romi Bhinder violated official regulations by using his mobile phone inside the Rajasthan Royals dugout. The official protocol outlines exceptions for team officials regarding mobile phone access during live matches and clearly defines where Bhinder is permitted to use communication devices.
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Is the Phone Allowed during the match in the dugout ?? 🤔@BCCI @IPL pic.twitter.com/qggyrS48SH
— Rishabh 18 (@rishabh18v) April 10, 2026
BCCI Rules Prohibit Phone Usage Inside Dugout In IPL
The Board of Control for Cricket in India implemented strict protocols for the Players and Match Officials Area for 2026. The rules prohibit electronic communication devices inside the team dugout. Support staff must hand over their mobile phones to the Security Liaison Officer upon arriving at the stadium.
The official protocol allows limited mobile phone access only to the team manager. However, the manager must use the device strictly inside the designated dressing room area. Romi Bhinder violated this rule by using his mobile phone in the Rajasthan Royals dugout.
The BCCI enforces these rules to prevent unauthorised electronic communication during live matches. The Match Referee or the Anti-Corruption Unit may investigate this breach. Cricket authorities could issue a warning or impose a fine on the Rajasthan Royals.
“Mobile Phones and other electronic communications equipment are not allowed to be used in the PMOA other than for a few members of the team. The Team Manager may use a phone in the Dressing Room area but NOT in the Dugout.”
If the Match Referee or Anti-Corruption Unit finds a breach of the PMOA Protocol, the team may face a fine or warning. However, the team manager is permitted to phone in the dressing room, but the matter may be viewed as a minor technical lapse.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Dhruv Jurel Secure Victory
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag won the toss and chose to field first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Jofra Archer, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma took two wickets each. Rajat Patidar scored 63 runs to help RCB post a decent total of 201 on a batting-friendly surface.
Rajasthan Royals chased the target by scoring 202 for four in 18 overs. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hit 78 runs from 26 balls, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 81 to seal the win in Guwahati.
Rajasthan Royals extended their winning streak to four matches in the Indian Premier League 2026 and are currently at the top of the points table. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are at third place after winning two of their last three matches.
Also read: Daryl Mitchell follows Ravichandran Ashwin’s advice; pulls out twice against Usman Tariq in PSL 2026
