IPL 2026: Romi Bhinder Cleared by BCCI with Warning, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi learns Verdict after Phone Controversy

The BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has cleared Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder of any serious wrongdoing following his use of a mobile phone in the team dugout during the IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati.

Bhinder has been issued only a formal warning and a fine for breaching the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocol, with sources confirming no evidence of corrupt intent, as per a report from Cricbuzz.

What Happened?

The incident occurred on April 10 during the 11th over of Rajasthan Royals' successful chase at the ACA Stadium. Television cameras captured Bhinder, seated in the dugout, scrolling on his phone. Fifteen-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, making his mark in the tournament and sitting immediately beside him as Bhinder's "local guardian" during the IPL, was seen glancing toward the screen. A video clip shared widely on social media sparked immediate scrutiny, raising questions about potential security protocol violations in a high-stakes T20 environment.

According to IPL regulations, team managers may use mobile phones only inside the dressing room. Their use is strictly prohibited in the dugout, which is accessible to players and support staff during live play. The ACSU promptly served Bhinder a show-cause notice, seeking an explanation within 48 hours. Bhinder responded promptly, submitting medical records and an apology.

Romi Bhinder's Medical Issue Surfaced

Sources close to the franchise revealed that Bhinder's action stemmed from genuine medical necessity rather than any rule-flouting intent. The long-serving Royals official, who has been part of the franchise's backroom staff in various roles since the IPL's inception in 2008, has a history of severe health complications. Both his lungs had collapsed previously, requiring him to spend nearly a month in a Nagpur hospital on a ventilator. He has also lost over 10 kg due to ongoing issues and suffers from asthma, which restricts his mobility; doctors have advised him against long walks or climbing stairs. The phone was reportedly kept for emergency medical contact.

A senior BCCI official told PTI that the ACSU's internal review of the footage found no malicious activity. "Bhinder has indeed breached the PMOA protocol, but mitigating factors, including his health condition and lack of any corrupt motive, were considered," the official said.

Romi Bhinder Fined and Warned

Despite a clearance from strict action, Romi Bhinder has been formally warned by the BCCI for the latest incident. The RR manager has also been fined Rs 1 lakh for his act.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gets Clearance

There are no adverse findings against young Sooryavanshi, who was not involved in the breach as he was seen looking at the phone. The episode has, however, renewed calls for stricter adherence to dugout protocols to maintain the integrity of the game.