Concerns Rise Over IPL Protocol Breaches Amid Phone Usage Incident

The integrity of the IPL is under scrutiny after a staff member from the Lucknow Super Giants was spotted using a mobile phone during a match against Chennai Super Kings. This incident follows previous warnings from the BCCI regarding adherence to protocols. As fans express their concerns on social media, questions arise about the effectiveness of the BCCI's regulations and the repeated breaches occurring this season. With a recent fine imposed on a Rajasthan Royals official for a similar violation, the league's commitment to maintaining its standards is being called into question.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 10, 2026, 18:35 IST

IPL Franchises Ignoring BCCI Warnings

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed concerns regarding adherence to protocols by Indian Premier League (IPL) teams, but recent events suggest these warnings are being overlooked. During the match on May 10 between the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at MA Chidambaram Stadium, a staff member from LSG was seen allegedly using a mobile phone while the game was in progress. This incident quickly caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and sparked widespread discussion.

It remains unclear whether the footage originated from the LSG dugout, the VIP section, or the dressing room, and the identity of the individual involved has not yet been disclosed.

Violation of PMOA Regulations

According to the Player and Match Official Arena (POMA) regulations set by the IPL, only team managers are permitted to use mobile phones, and only in the dressing room, not in the dugout. The guidelines state: "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. Player and support staff items, i.e., phones, smartwatches, or any other communication devices should be turned off and given to the team SLO for storage upon arrival at the stadium. Accredited staff, including dressing room attendants and IPL Match Managers, may not take communication devices into the PMOA. Secure boxes will be available at every entrance to securely store devices," as outlined in the PMOA Protocol document issued by the BCCI.

Previous Incident with Rajasthan Royals

This marks the second controversy in the 2026 IPL season, following an incident where Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was seen using his phone in the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Guwahati. Bhinder faced disciplinary action from the IPL governing council, resulting in a fine of ₹1 lakh. This latest occurrence comes shortly after the BCCI distributed an eight-page advisory to franchises addressing various breaches of protocol within the league.