IPL: RR team manager Bhinder fined Rs 1 lakh for using mobile phone in dugout
New Delhi, April 17
Rajasthan Royals team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder has been fined Rs 1 lakh for using a mobile phone inside the dugout during their Indian Premier League 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on April 10.
Under the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, mobile phone use is strictly prohibited in the dugout area. While team managers and media managers are permitted to use their devices, this is restricted to the dressing room and not the dugout. Romi Bhinder was found using a mobile phone during the 11th over of the Rajasthan Royals' batting innings.
"Rajasthan Royals Team Manager, Ravinder Singh Bhinder, has been fined INR 1 Lakh for breaching the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols during Match 16 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati, on April 10, 2026. The breach relates to the use of a mobile phone in the team dugout, which is in contravention of Article 4.1.1 of the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols," as per a statement from IPL.
"Acknowledging the lapse, Mr Bhinder admitted to the offence and offered an unconditional apology. As this was his first breach under the prescribed protocols, a fine of INR 1 Lakh has been imposed in accordance with Article 7.42(a) of the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols. He has also been warned to exercise greater care in the future and to adhere strictly to the established guidelines," the statement further added.
Rajasthan Royals defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru by six wickets, powered by a blistering 78 off 26 balls from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The Royals are currently third on the points table and will next take on three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their home turf, at the iconic Eden Gardens.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Rs 1 lakh seems like a lot, but for an IPL team manager, it's probably a small amount. The real issue is the principle. The dugout rule is there to prevent unfair advantages. Glad he apologized, but hope others learn from this.
Typical! Focus should be on Vaibhav's amazing 78 off 26 balls! That's the real story. The team won, they're third on the table. This fine is just a minor distraction. On to KKR at Eden Gardens! 💪
I appreciate that the BCCI is strict about these protocols. It maintains the integrity of the game. In a country crazy about cricket, we must set the right example. No excuses for breaking clear rules.
Watching from the US, the level of detail in IPL regulations is impressive. The fine and public statement show transparency. A good precedent for other leagues to follow.
With so much money and reputation at stake, these small lapses can't be ignored. But the punishment seems fair - a fine and a warning for a first-time offence. Bhinder saab, ab phone dugout mein mat nikalna!
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