Riyan Parag has found himself in the soup after he was caught vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room during their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh on Tuesday.
The broadcast camera briefly captured Parag with what looked like a vape. The video went viral on social media, with questions being raised about disciplinary measures in place for players during matches. The footage was captured just after Parag was dismissed after scoring 29 off 16 balls.
Although there is no clear public rule against vaping, Parag may face possible action. However, the BCCI has strict guidelines for player behaviour at stadiums. The use of tobacco or related products in dressing rooms or dugouts is generally banned under health and safety protocols.
The 24-year-old has done well leading the side this season after Sanju Samson moved to Chennai Super Kings on a transfer deal. But his form with the bat in IPL 2026 has come under criticism, scoring only 81 runs in seven innings before this match.
Despite the off-field controversy, Rajasthan handed Punjab their first loss of the season when they chased down 222 with six wickets in hand.
Earlier, RR’s team manager Romi Bhinder was caught using a mobile phone in the dugout during their IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on April 10.
The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) sent him a notice asking him to explain his actions within 48 hours. But ACSU didn’t find the response satisfactory, and later fined him Rs 1 lakh and gave an official warning.
