Rajasthan Royals Manager Romi Bhinder Escapes Severe Sanctions After Dugout Mobile Phone Breach
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has issued a fine and a formal warning to Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder following a breach of the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols during the Indian Premier League.
Investigation Findings and Medical Exemption
During a run chase between the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati, broadcast cameras captured Bhinder using a mobile device in the active team dugout. The incident occurred during the 11th over of the innings. Upon reviewing the footage and issuing a show-cause notice, ACSU investigators accepted Bhinder’s medical defense. Medical records confirmed his health condition required immediate access to a mobile phone, leading the board to waive harsher suspensions or bans.
Seated next to Bhinder during the incident was teenage player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was visible looking at the device screen. The ACSU definitively cleared the young cricketer of any regulatory violations. A senior board official stated that the franchise is responsible for educating young recruits on compliance, ensuring the player faces no intimidation or disciplinary action for merely being in proximity to the device.
Match Incident Summary
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Rajasthan Royals vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| Location | Guwahati, Assam |
| Timing | 11th over (Rajasthan Royals innings) |
| Primary Subject | Romi Bhinder (Team Manager) |
| Secondary Subject | Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Player) |
| ACSU Ruling | Fine and official warning issued |
Understanding PMOA Regulations
The International Cricket Council and the BCCI strictly enforce PMOA rules to prevent illegal betting and maintain the integrity of professional cricket. The Indian Premier League protocol dictates clear boundaries for communication devices:
- Players and coaching staff must surrender all communication devices before entering the restricted PMOA zones.
- Team managers and media managers are permitted to retain their devices for logistical duties.
- Device usage by authorized personnel is strictly confined to the dressing room and is explicitly prohibited in the dugout area.
While Bhinder’s actions violated the location boundaries of the dugout protocol, the documented medical necessity satisfied the regulatory body’s integrity checks. The Rajasthan Royals management will proceed without further disruptions to their coaching and operational staff availability.