IPL 2026: Romi Bhinder under scanner for dugout phone use during RCB clash

Rajasthan Royals (RR) long-time team manager Romi Bhinder has courted controversy after TV cameras captured him allegedly using a mobile phone in the team dugout during their IPL clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

The incident first surfaced on Instagram through a social media influencer and was later verified, confirming that Bhinder was indeed using a mobile device. Notably, teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was seen seated beside him during the Royals’ six-wicket victory in Guwahati on Friday.

"Yes, Bhinder has indeed breached the protocol of Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) as cell phones are banned in the dugout during match," a BCCI official confirmed. On IPL's official website, the concerned clause regarding PMOA protocol 2026 states: "The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout."

People in the know believe that Romi Bhinder, who has been associated with the Rajasthan Royals since its inception, was expected to be fully aware of the anti-corruption protocols.

"It could be inadvertent but there has to be some action since it amounts to breach. Whether it will be warning or match ban will depend on match referee and ACU report. Based on that IPL GC can take a call," the senior official said.

Bhinder could face closer scrutiny, especially after Sooryavanshi referred to him as his "local guardian" during the post-match presentation.

RR have been in sensational form in the ongoing IPL 2026, winning all four matches to sit comfortably at the top of the points table with eight points. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been a standout performer, delivering consistent and explosive performances.

The 15-year-old continued his remarkable run with a blistering 78 off just 26 balls, dismantling a quality bowling attack featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood. His innings, laced with eight fours and seven sixes, effectively sealed the chase within the powerplay. In four matches, Sooryavanshi has amassed 200 runs at an average of 50.00 and a stunning strike rate of 266.66, including two half-centuries. He currently holds the Orange Cap.

Earlier, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) posted a competitive 201/8, powered by Rajat Patidar (63), Virat Kohli (32), and Venkatesh Iyer (29*). For RR, Ravi Bishnoi, Jofra Archer, and Brijesh Sharma picked up two wickets each. In reply, Sooryavanshi and Dhruv Jurel (81*) powered RR to a dominant win, outclassing RCB with ease.