Rajasthan Royals' Manager Faces Backlash for Dugout Phone Use

Controversy Surrounds Rajasthan Royals' Team Manager

Romi Bhinder, the long-serving manager of the Rajasthan Royals, is facing criticism after being seen using a mobile phone in the team's dugout alongside rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The incident occurred during the IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and was captured by television cameras. Initially highlighted by a social media influencer on Instagram, it has been confirmed that Bhinder was indeed on his phone throughout the Royals' six-wicket win in Guwahati.

A BCCI official stated, "Yes, Bhinder has indeed breached the protocol of the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA), as cell phones are banned in the dugout during a match." According to the IPL's official website, the PMOA protocol for 2026 specifies that while the Team Manager can use a phone in the dressing room, it is prohibited in the dugout. Given his long-standing association with the franchise, Bhinder is expected to be familiar with these anti-corruption regulations.

While it may have been unintentional, the breach necessitates some form of action. The nature of the response—whether it will be a warning or a match suspension—will be determined by the match referee and the ACU report. A senior board official noted, "Based on that, the IPL GC can take a call." Bhinder's situation may be further complicated by Sooryavanshi referring to him as his 'local guardian' during the post-match presentation.

The dugout is considered a high-security area in the IPL, designed to prevent any external interference in the game. Lalit Modi, a former IPL commissioner, has publicly criticized the incident and questioned the whereabouts of the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) officials. The BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit is expected to investigate the matter and provide a report to the head of the ACU, which will influence the disciplinary actions Bhinder may face. Possible penalties could include a significant fine or a temporary suspension from the PMOA, effectively barring him from the dressing room and dugout for upcoming matches.