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Rajasthan Royals (RR) manager Romi Bhinder has found himself in controversy after being seen using a mobile phone in the dugout during their last Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Guwahati.
A photo of Bhinder has gone viral on social media, showing him using his phone while sitting next to young player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during RR’s six-wicket win on Friday.
Arun Dhumal on the incident
As per the IPL’s official rules for 2026, the PMOA guidelines clearly say: "The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout."
In the exclusive chat with Sports Tak, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said we have directed the ACU TO enquire and submit the report as soon as possible. He said a few officials are allowed to have a phone in PMOA, but is he (Romi) one of them? That’s why ACU will call him to hear, and then a call will be taken on the matter.
However, there are chances that Bhinder could face even more attention in the coming days, especially after Sooryavanshi referred to him as his "local guardian" during the post-match presentation.
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What will be the punishment?
Determining the penalty: The final decision will be taken by the IPL Governing Council after reviewing the report from the Match Referee and the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU).
Specific consequences: The punishment could be a heavy fine or even a temporary suspension, which may stop him from entering the dugout or dressing room during upcoming matches.
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RR's performance in IPL 2026
Rajasthan Royals are currently at the top of the points table, winning all four matches of the tournament. Their batting prodigy, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, is in the form of his life as he hammered 200 runs in four outings. Rajasthan Royals will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
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