IPL 2026 Faces Controversies as Team Owners Breach Protocols

Ongoing Controversies in IPL 2026

The IPL 2026 season is currently underway, with ten teams competing fiercely, and eight of them still vying for playoff spots. However, the tournament has encountered numerous controversies, particularly concerning breaches of the Player and Match Official Access (PMOA) Protocol by players and team staff. A notable incident involved Romi Bhinder, a manager for the Rajasthan Royals, who was accused of using a mobile phone within the playing area. This incident marks just the beginning of a series of issues that have arisen, prompting the BCCI to take action.

Reports indicate that IPL team owners have repeatedly entered restricted zones during live matches, disregarding the PMOA Protocol. Instead of remaining in their VIP boxes, some owners have attempted to communicate with the dugout or, more audaciously, have approached and interacted with players during active gameplay. The BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has raised significant concerns regarding these actions.

Adding to the ACU's worries, images have emerged showing owners lingering near the dugouts, with some even bringing their mobile phones onto the field, which raises alarms for anti-corruption officials. Despite receiving initial warnings, this behavior has continued. A source familiar with the situation stated, “One of the most concerning aspects has been the conduct of the team owners. They have been violating rules and have not been cooperative. Evidence includes photographs of them near the dugout, and some even carry their phones onto the field. They have been warned, but it hasn’t made a difference.”

BCCI's Firm Stance

On May 7, the BCCI released a detailed seven-page advisory to all franchises, formally outlining the infractions committed by the teams. According to reports, the document emphasizes that while team owners may have good intentions in wanting to support their teams, unauthorized physical interactions during live matches are a breach of established protocols and disrupt team dynamics. The BCCI's directive is unequivocal: owners and their representatives are strictly forbidden from communicating with or physically accessing players in the dugout, dressing room, or playing area, except through designated channels. Additionally, the board has placed the onus on franchise management to ensure that owners are thoroughly informed of these regulations before each match.