'We will be taking some action': BCCI secretary warns IPL teams of strict punishment for rule violations

Sports Tak

Sports Tak

UPDATED:

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia in the frame (via Getty)
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia in the frame (via Getty)

Story Highlights:

BCCI has issued a stern warning to franchises in the ongoing IPL 2026 season.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that stricter action is on the horizon for teams failing to follow established norms.

Devajit Saikia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official, has confirmed that the teams violating rules in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) will be taken under the radar and will be punished subsequently. 

Also Read: 'I don't think I need to answers any critics': Riyan Parag's message to naysayers after 50-ball 90 following vaping controversy 

What Saikia said

Speaking on the sidelines of India’s Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad announcement in Mumbai, Saikia made it clear that the board is closely monitoring team conduct and evaluating further disciplinary measures.

"We are exploring some other options about how to bring the teams which are violating the norms," Saikia said. "We will be taking some action. We are looking at the various terms and conditions and protocols of IPL [around] how the teams behave."

Rajasthan Royals incidents trigger scrutiny

The warning comes after multiple incidents involving Rajasthan Royals raised concerns over adherence to IPL protocols. Team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder was fined INR 1 lakh after being spotted using a mobile phone near the dugout during a match, a violation of league regulations.

In a separate episode, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag faced disciplinary action for vaping in the dressing room after a video of him recently went viral. The young skipper was penalized with a 25% deduction in match fees and handed a demerit point.

Bhinder later clarified that his breach was inadvertent and issued an apology to the BCCI’s anti-corruption unit before the fine was imposed.

Also Read: RCB squad heads to Maldives for mid-season vacation on week-long IPL 2026 break

BCCI stresses collective accountability

Devajit Saikia emphasized that responsibility does not rest solely on individuals but extends to the entire team environment.

"It is not just players or officials," Saikia said. "As a team they have to maintain some decorum so that the image of the IPL is never adversely affected. To ensure that we have to take a call and we will be taking some action."

The board’s stance underlines a broader effort to preserve the integrity and reputation of the IPL, especially as the tournament continues to attract global attention.

Franchise response and internal measures

Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara acknowledged the incidents, stating that both matters had been addressed internally in coordination with the BCCI. He added that the franchise remains committed to maintaining a positive and professional team culture.

With the league entering a crucial phase, the BCCI’s warning serves as a reminder that compliance with rules and conduct standards remains non-negotiable for all franchises.