BCCI tightens IPL rules, warns teams over honey traps, vaping and protocol breaches

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has issued a sweeping new advisory to all 10 Indian Premier League franchises, tightening conduct rules after a series of protocol violations during the 2026 season.

The eight-page directive, circulated on Thursday by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, lays out fresh Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at curbing misconduct and safeguarding the league’s reputation.

The move follows recent controversies involving Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder, who was penalised for using a phone in the dugout, and skipper Riyan Parag, who was fined after being caught vaping inside the dressing room.

The advisory warns that repeated violations could tarnish the image of the tournament and expose franchises to legal and disciplinary action.

Honey trap warning for players

Among the most striking directives is a caution against potential “honey trap” situations.

The BCCI said it had observed instances where players and support staff allowed unauthorised individuals into hotel rooms without approval from team managers.

The board has now barred any guest from entering a player or staff member’s room without prior written permission.

Visitors must instead be received only in designated public spaces such as hotel lobbies or lounges.

The advisory specifically flagged the risk of targeted compromise in high-profile sporting environments, warning franchises to remain vigilant against situations that could lead to legal complications or reputational damage.

Strict movement rules

Players and support staff must now inform and obtain clearance from designated security or integrity officers before leaving team hotels at any time.

All movements outside team accommodation — whether personal or recreational — must be communicated in advance, with detailed logs maintained for BCCI inspection.

Owners barred from interacting during matches

The BCCI has also tightened restrictions on franchise owners.

The directive notes instances of owners attempting to communicate with, hug or approach players during live matches — conduct it says violates Player and Match Officials Area protocols.

Owners and their representatives are now strictly prohibited from entering restricted zones or interacting directly with players and officials during matches unless through approved channels.

Zero tolerance for vaping

Without naming Parag directly, the BCCI reiterated that vaping and use of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited across all tournament venues, including dressing rooms, dugouts, hotels and practice facilities.

The board warned that such conduct may not only breach IPL regulations but could also amount to violations under Indian law.

Compliance deadlines and penalties

Franchises have been ordered to brief all players and support staff within 48 hours and secure written acknowledgements confirming understanding of the new rules.

Team managers must also maintain guest approval records and detailed movement logs.

The BCCI said it will conduct periodic audits and inspections to monitor compliance.

Violations could trigger show-cause notices, financial penalties, suspensions, disqualifications, or even referral to law enforcement authorities in cases involving legal breaches.

The board made it clear that all franchises are expected to treat the advisory with utmost seriousness to protect the integrity of the tournament.