The BCCI has decided to widen its net and not restrict monitoring only to players and franchise officials, and would include family members, broadcasters and social media content creators.
The board’s latest decision comes at a time when there is increasing concern over the amount of team-related content being shared on social media. Officials feel that videos, reels and behind-the-scenes clips could accidentally reveal sensitive information. During the ongoing IPL season, action has already been taken against some former cricketers working in broadcasting roles because of such concerns.
Before the tournament began, BCCI had issued stricter operational and anti-corruption rules for broadcasters. The guidelines also included clear instructions for camera crews and staff regarding their movement and behaviour in restricted areas around players and match officials.
“There have been a few breaches by a few commentators. One former international cricketer was found making videos on his phone near the dugout in a tense situation of a match. The BCCI team acted swiftly and got him to stop the recording. There could be a case of sending legal notices to an ex-cricketer who was found filming for his YouTube channel. The board has clearly mentioned that anybody wearing BCCI and IPL official attire can’t be seen filming at the ground,” BCCI sources told TOI.
Moreover, the board’s concern seems to be linked to the growing culture of content creation around the IPL, where players, former cricketers, influencers and even family members regularly share behind-the-scenes moments from team hotels, airports and stadiums on social media.
The anti-corruption measures have now expanded to include players’ close family members as well. They have reportedly been advised not to post photos or videos during the tournament. Franchises are also being closely monitored over how much access social media creators are being given inside team areas.
In one case, the board reportedly asked an Indian cricketer to reduce posts related to team travel and movements. In another earlier incident, an Indian fast bowler was warned after sharing a video made by his wife that showed the Indian team’s hotel facilities.
Officials are also worried that social media activity on match days could unintentionally reveal tactical details or team plans.
“The reel culture has led to many violations of late. There are a few Indian players who post videos on match days, just before a match and immediately after the conclusion of the match,” the source said.
The anti-corruption measures are not just limited to the IPL. BCCI has also increased monitoring in domestic franchise-based T20 leagues, with its anti-corruption guidelines already being followed.
The board is also reportedly concerned about senior players allowing family members or friends to travel in team buses. Officials believe this could create unnecessary security and integrity risks around the team environment.
“There are BCCI ACU officers in team hotels in the local T20 leagues as well. BCCI’s anti-corruption guidelines apply to these leagues. There are anti-corruption sessions with players, team officials and team owners, but there have been a few IPL players who have taken liberties and brought in unauthorised guests to team hotels in some of the local T20 leagues. These are poor examples for young cricketers who make it to the IPL through these leagues,” the sources said.
