BCCI issues notice to RR manager Romi Bhinder over mobile phone use in IPL 2026

April 14, 2026: The Rajasthan Royals are one of the only two unbeaten teams in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026. However, off the field, the team is now facing controversy. Their manager, Romi Bhinder, came under attention after he was seen using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati last Friday. A video of this incident went viral on social media the next day, and soon the Board of Control for Cricket in India took notice of the matter.

The BCCI has now sent a show-cause notice to Bhinder. Its Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has asked him to give a reply within 48 hours. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said that a final decision will be taken only after the ACSU completes its investigation and submits its report. He said, “We have asked the ACSU to investigate the matter. The manager is allowed to have a mobile, but not in the dugout. You can use the mobile as an emergency measure or in case of a medical emergency.” He also added that the matter will be taken seriously and all teams must follow the rules set by the board.

BCCI anti-corruption unit begins investigation into RR manager Romi Bhinder using phone in dugout: Report#BCCI #RR #RomiBhinder https://t.co/hlypkfJjFz

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) April 12, 2026

What rules say and health concerns

According to reports, Bhinder had a serious health problem recently. Both his lungs had collapsed, and he spent almost a month in a hospital in Nagpur. He was on ventilator support and stayed in the ICU during that time. This is why he may have needed a phone for emergency reasons.

However, the rules are very clear. As per the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) guidelines, using a mobile phone in the dugout is not allowed. The rules say, “The team manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.” They also say that mobile phones and other communication devices are not allowed in the PMOA for most people. Players and staff must switch off their phones and give them to the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) when they enter the stadium. Even other staff members are not allowed to carry such devices in this area.

Now, the next update will come after Bhinder submits his reply to the notice. The BCCI will then decide what action needs to be taken based on the investigation report.