BCCI Implements Strict Rules to Safeguard IPL Integrity Amid Misconduct Concerns

New Regulations for IPL Players and Staff

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a warning regarding potential "honey traps, legal liabilities, and security threats," leading to a ban on unauthorized visitors in the hotel rooms of players, support staff, and team officials during the IPL. This decision follows reports of "misconduct and protocol breaches" flagged by the Board's Anti-Corruption Unit.

In a detailed advisory sent to the ten IPL franchises, the BCCI mandated that guests must obtain written permission from team managers to access the rooms of players and officials.

"This advisory has been prompted by certain incidents noted during the current season, aiming to uphold the expected standards of professionalism, discipline, security awareness, and adherence to protocols among all IPL stakeholders," stated BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia in a communication to franchise CEOs.

Saikia further emphasized that the BCCI has observed instances of misconduct involving players and support staff, where unauthorized individuals gained access to hotel rooms without the Team Manager's knowledge.

"In several cases, Team Managers were completely unaware of such visitors. This practice is now strictly prohibited, effective immediately," the notification declared.

All players and support staff are now required to adhere to a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) throughout the tournament.

"No guest should be allowed into private hotel rooms unless specifically authorized in writing by the Team Manager. The BCCI highlights the well-known risks of targeted compromise and honey trapping that exist in high-profile sports environments.

The potential for serious legal allegations, including those related to sexual misconduct under Indian law, cannot be overlooked. IPL franchises must remain vigilant and proactive in mitigating these risks at all times," the Board cautioned.

Additionally, players and support staff are prohibited from leaving team hotels at "irregular hours" without notifying their designated Security Liaison Officer (SLO) and Team Integrity Officer (TIO).

Saikia mentioned that the BCCI or IPL Operations Team may conduct periodic checks to ensure compliance with these guidelines, with violations potentially resulting in sanctions ranging from financial penalties to suspension or disqualification.

Restrictions on Franchise Owners

The document also addressed breaches by unnamed team owners, who allegedly failed to respect the Players' And Match Officials Access (PMOA) protocol.

"Specific instances have been noted where IPL franchise owners attempted to communicate with, approach, hug, or otherwise physically interact with players during live matches.

Such actions, regardless of intent, directly violate established protocols and may disrupt team dynamics and match proceedings," the Board asserted.

Consequently, the BCCI has prohibited owners from interacting with players during matches.

"Franchise owners and their representatives are strictly forbidden from being in or physically accessing players or team officials in the dugout, dressing room, or playing area during matches, except through designated and approved channels.

All access to restricted zones by franchise owners must strictly adhere to the PMOA Protocol as communicated by IPL operations. Any deviation will be treated as a serious violation."

Vaping Ban Enforced

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was spotted vaping in the dressing room balcony during a match, sparking controversy. Without naming him, Saikia stated that engaging in such banned activities under Indian law will not be tolerated.

"It is important to note that vaping and electronic cigarettes are prohibited under applicable Indian law.

Any individual found participating in such activities within tournament premises is not only violating BCCI and IPL regulations but may also be committing a cognizable offense under the relevant legal framework," he stated.

"Therefore, the use of vapes, e-cigarettes, and all prohibited substances is strictly banned across all IPL tournament venues, including dressing rooms, dugouts, team hotels, and practice facilities."