NewKerala.com

IPL 2026: Umpire Anil Chaudhary Warns Young Cricketers After Riyan Parag Vaping Row

Former umpire Anil Chaudhary has warned young cricketers to be careful after Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was allegedly caught vaping on camera during an IPL match. The incident occurred when cameras panned to the dressing room, showing Parag with a vape device near teammates. Chaudhary emphasized that players should be cautious as cameras can capture them anywhere except the toilet. Vaping is illegal in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act 2019, and the BCCI has strict guidelines against tobacco use in stadiums.

Key Points: IPL 2026: Anil Chaudhary Warns Players After Parag Vaping Row

  • Riyan Parag caught vaping on camera during IPL 2026 match
  • Anil Chaudhary warns young cricketers to be careful
  • Vaping illegal in India under PECA 2019 Act
  • BCCI has strict guidelines against tobacco use in stadiums
2 min read

IPL 2026: Boys should be careful, says Anil Chaudhary on Riyan Parag 'vaping' row

Former umpire Anil Chaudhary warns IPL players to be careful after Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was caught vaping on camera, sparking debate on discipline and legality.

"Sometimes these cameras can go anywhere, so all players should be very careful. - Anil Chaudhary"

Mumbai, April 29

Former international umpire Anil Chaudhary has sent out a stern warning to young cricketers to be careful regarding their off-field or on-field conduct during high-profile tournaments, following the social media storm after Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was allegedly caught vaping on camera during his side's IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings.

The incident happened during the 16th over of the RR's chase when cameras panned to the dressing room, catching a brief moment where Parag appeared to be using a vape device while being around Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Kuldeep Sen. The footage went viral instantly, sparking debates over player discipline and the legality of such devices under Indian law.

"I do not know the legal aspects, but certainly, government rules and other regulations will be there. Sometimes these cameras can go anywhere, so all players should be very careful. These are young lads; they do not know that sometimes they can be caught anywhere except the toilet, so boys should be careful. I think on TV, good things should be shown, and we should discuss the game rather than other things," Chaudhary told IANS on the sidelines of the EUT20 Belgium jersey launch.

As per the Indian legislation, vaping or the use of e-cigarettes is illegal under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019. The Act prohibits the production, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertisement of e-cigarettes and vapes in India, and any violations lead to imprisonment and hefty fines.

Although there is no clear public rule against vaping, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strict guidelines for player behaviour within stadiums. The use of tobacco or related products in dressing rooms or dugouts is generally banned under health and safety protocols, putting Parag at risk of punishment.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Honestly, this is such a non-issue in the West. Vaping is legal in many countries, and players do it all the time. But I understand the Indian context—different laws, different expectations. Parag should have been more discreet, but the backlash feels overblown. Let's focus on his captaincy and batting, not his personal habits. 🤷‍♂️
P
Priya S
I think the real issue is that cameras catch everything these days. But as Chaudhary said, players should know they are never truly off-camera. Parag is just 23, still young and learning. Giving him a warning is enough. Let's not crucify the boy for one mistake. He has shown great leadership this season. 😊
A
Arjun K
This is a serious matter. Vaping is banned in India, and as a public figure, Parag should have known better. BCCI must set an example. If they let this slide, others will follow. I appreciate Chaudhary for speaking out—someone needed to say it. Plus, it's distracting from the actual cricket. The game should be the focus, not these controversies. 💪
J
James A
I watch IPL from Australia, and honestly, this is overhyped. Young athletes make mistakes. Vaping is common even in our leagues. The real problem is the double standards—players are expected to be saints, but we forget they are human. Let him off with a warning and move on. The season is too competitive to waste time on this. 🤔
N
Nisha Z

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50