Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued fresh Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to all 10 IPL franchises, warning players, support staff, and team owners against protocol violations during the ongoing IPL season.
According to reports, the eight-page advisory was sent by Devajit Saikia to franchise CEOs after multiple incidents raised concerns over discipline, security, and anti-corruption measures inside the league ecosystem.
The BCCI stated that several players and support staff members had allegedly allowed outsiders into hotel rooms without informing team managers or seeking official approval. The board has now banned such activities with immediate effect.
Under the new rules, no outsider irrespective of relationship or purpose will be allowed into players’ or support staff hotel rooms without prior written permission from the team manager. Meetings with guests will now be restricted to public areas such as hotel lobbies and reception lounges.
The board also warned franchises and players to stay alert against potential “honey trap” situations and targeted approaches. According to the advisory, such incidents could lead to serious legal consequences, including allegations of sexual exploitation under Indian law.
The BCCI further expressed concern over some franchise owners allegedly violating Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols by interacting with players and officials inside restricted zones after matches. The board clarified that owners and their representatives cannot enter dugouts, dressing rooms, or on-field areas without prior approval.
Franchise managements have also been directed to properly brief owners and associated personnel about all IPL rules and restricted-area protocols before every match.
BCCI Cracks Down on Vaping
The advisory also highlighted incidents of vaping inside IPL venues after Riyan Parag was reportedly seen vaping in a dressing room during IPL 2026.
The BCCI reminded franchises that vaping and e-cigarettes are banned under Indian law and warned that violations inside IPL premises would be treated as punishable offences. Restricted areas include dressing rooms, dugouts, practice venues, and team hotels.
