IPL 2026: Romi Bhinder in Hot Waters! BCCI Launches Urgent Probe Against RR Manager after Phone Use in Dugout

As the high-octane drama of IPL 2026 was getting intense, a shocking off-field controversy has erupted, threatening to cast a massive shadow over the Rajasthan Royals (RR) camp.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unleashed its Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) to formally investigate RR team manager Romi Bhinder.

What was Romi Bhinder's Mistake in RR vs RCB Match?

During the match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, live television cameras captured a highly questionable moment. Bhinder was spotted blatantly using a mobile phone while seated squarely in the dugout. Adding fuel to the fire, teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was also watching closely at the device alongside him.

In a tournament where the fear of corruption

and illegal betting constantly looms, the sight of an electronic device in the highly restricted dugout area immediately triggered red flags across the cricketing world.

Breaking Down the Rules: Was it a Breach?

According to the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, team managers are strictly forbidden from bringing or using mobile devices into the dugout, though they may use them in the designated dressing room areas exclusively for emergencies.

BCCI confirm Investigation

Speaking to the news agency IANS, Saikia confirmed the gravity of the situation and the immediate launch of a probe.

"As per the PMOA regulations, certain individuals like the team manager are allowed to carry phones, and Romi Bhinder, as the manager of Rajasthan Royals, can carry one. But we need to thoroughly examine which area the phone was taken into and whether due permission was sought," Saikia said.

Saikia further emphasised the urgency of the BCCI's response to the viral incident, adding, "By doing that, whether he has violated any protocol or regulation under our existing IPL rules and regulations is being verified, and as I speak, we have already started the process. "

"The Anti-Corruption Unit has begun the exercise to see whether he took the mobile phone into the designated area or beyond that. After examining the various pieces of evidence and following due process, they will submit a report based on their findings," the BCCI secretary concluded.

Bhinder is no newcomer to the franchise; he has been an integral part of the Royals' backroom staff since the inaugural 2008 season and currently serves as the local guardian for the young Sooryavanshi. However, his veteran status will not shield him from the BCCI's wrath if foul play is suspected.

If the ACU's deep dive clears him of malicious intent, the punishment might be contained. As the source clarified to IANS.

"If Bhinder is found not to have done anything suspicious by the ACU officials and the match referee in Guwahati, then he could be let off with a warning, or a fine of 10-20 percent may be levied on the franchise. "

As Rajasthan Royals prepare for their upcoming clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, all eyes will be glued not just to the pitch, but to the sidelines.