IPL 2026: RR Manager Bhinder Gets ACSU Notice for Phone Use in Dugout

The BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit has issued a show-cause notice to Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder for using a mobile phone in the team dugout during a match against RCB. The incident, captured on TV and viral on social media, shows Bhinder with the phone as young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi glances at the screen. This action directly violates IPL's PMOA guidelines, which explicitly prohibit phone use in the dugout area. An IPL insider stated the breach is clear-cut, and other franchises are closely watching how the BCCI will penalize Bhinder.

Key Points: IPL ACSU Notice to RR Manager for Mobile Phone Breach

  • Show-cause notice for dugout phone use
  • Viral video captured incident
  • Breach of PMOA guidelines
  • Investigation outcome awaited by franchises
  • Bhinder is a long-time RR member
2 min read

IPL 2026: ACSU sends show-cause notice to RR manager Bhinder, response sought in 48 hours

BCCI's ACSU serves show-cause notice to Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder for using a mobile phone in the dugout, seeking a reply within 48 hours.

"This massive breach of rules is a very open and shut thing - IPL insider"

New Delhi, April 13

The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit of the Board of Control for Cricket in India has issued a show-cause notice to Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder over the usage of a device during the side's clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and have sought his response within the next 48 hours.

"Yes, after the ACSU launched an investigation into the matter, a show-cause notice has been served to Bhinder. He has been asked to reply within 48 hours and explain the reasons behind him taking the mobile to that area," said sources in the BCCI to IANS on Monday.

The incident unfolded during the second innings of RR's clash against RCB at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, when TV captured Bhinder using a mobile phone while seated in front of the refrigerator in the team dugout. In the clipping which soon went viral on social media, teenaged opening sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was spotted glancing at the phone's screen being used by Bhinder.

According to the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) guidelines found on IPL's website, "The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout."

Bhinder, who also serves as Sooryavanshi's local guardian in the IPL, was hospitalised for nearly a month in Nagpur due to a collapse of his lungs in the lead-up to the IPL.

He has been an integral member of RR's set-up since the IPL's inception in 2008 and was even attached with the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants when the Jaipur-based franchise was banned from participating in the competition.

Other franchises are also keeping a close eye on the outcome of ACSU's investigation on Bhinder. "As per the rules, usage of mobile is not permitted in that area, irrespective of the explanation he gives. This massive breach of rules is a very open and shut thing and it will be interesting to see how the BCCI penalises him," said an IPL insider.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This seems a bit harsh? The article says he was Vaibhav's local guardian and was recently hospitalized. Maybe it was a family emergency or health update. Hope the BCCI considers the human side before penalizing.
A
Aman W
The timing is suspicious, right in the middle of a crucial match. And a young player was seen looking at the screen. Even if it's innocent, it sets a terrible precedent. Strict action is needed to send a message.
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Sarah B
As a cricket fan from abroad, I appreciate that the BCCI's ACSU is acting swiftly. Transparency in these matters is crucial for the global reputation of the IPL. Let's see what his explanation is.
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Karthik V
With due respect to the ACSU, I feel they sometimes go overboard. A seasoned manager like Bhinder, with RR since 2008, knows the rules. There must be a valid reason. The "open and shut" comment from the insider feels premature.
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Nisha Z
Other franchises watching the outcome says it all. If he gets a light punishment, everyone will start bending rules. BCCI needs to be consistent and firm, regardless of the person's seniority or health history.

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