BCCI issues warning to IPL franchises over protocol breaches: Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India [BCCI] has reportedly issued a strongly-worded seven-page advisory to all 10 IPL franchises over several incidents involving misconduct, indiscipline and breaches of security protocol during the ongoing IPL season.

Signed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, the advisory warned that such violations could cause “significant reputational harm” to the IPL, the franchises concerned and the board itself. Although no team, player or official was named, the advisory highlighted multiple areas of concern involving players, support staff and franchise management.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the advisory followed statements made by Saikia and IPL Governing Council chairman Arun Dhumal, who said the BCCI’s anti-corruption and security units had detected anomalies related to unauthorised individuals being present within team environments.

One of the major concerns reportedly involved players and support staff allowing visitors into hotel rooms without informing team managers, despite protocols requiring prior approval. Under IPL regulations, all room-access requests must be routed through the team manager and communicated to the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) official attached to the franchise. However, the BCCI reportedly observed several cases where managers were unaware of visitors entering players’ rooms. The board has now reportedly made written approval compulsory for any visitor, including family members and friends, while meetings with guests must take place in hotel lobbies.

The BCCI further warned that unrestricted access to players and team spaces increases risks linked to corruption, honey-trapping and possible legal complications, including allegations of sexual misconduct. Franchises were urged to remain vigilant and proactive in minimising such threats.

Another issue highlighted in the advisory concerned the conduct of certain franchise owners during live matches. Some owners reportedly attempted to communicate with, approach or physically interact with players and support staff during games, which violates IPL protocol. Owners are only permitted to interact with teams after matches conclude. The BCCI warned that breaching the Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) during play would be treated as a serious offence.

The advisory also addressed incidents involving vaping and prohibited substances at venues, dressing rooms and training facilities. The matter gained attention after Riyan Parag, captain of Rajasthan Royals, admitted to vaping in the dressing room during a match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. Since e-cigarettes and vapes are banned in India, the BCCI stated that their use may not only breach IPL regulations but could also amount to a cognisable offence under Indian law.

The advisory concluded with a warning that random checks would be carried out to ensure compliance. Violations could reportedly lead to show-cause notices, financial penalties, suspension or even disqualification from current and future IPL seasons. The BCCI maintained that the measures were aimed not at restricting franchises, but at protecting stakeholders from “real, foreseeable” and potentially damaging risks.