RR Manager Romi Bhinder Faces IPL Action for Phone Use in Dugout

Top Summary

• What happened: Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder was seen using a mobile phone in the team dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
• Why it matters: This action violates the IPL's PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) protocol, which restricts phone usage in the dugout.
• What changes: Bhinder could face disciplinary action, including a potential summons by the match referee and anti-corruption unit.
• Who is affected: Romi Bhinder, the Rajasthan Royals team, the IPL Governing Council, and potentially the integrity of the game.

PMOA Protocol Breach

Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder was spotted using a mobile phone in the team's dugout during Friday's game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati.

The incident occurred during the 11th over of the RR chase. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was also seen looking at Bhinder's screen.

According to the "PMOA PROTOCOL – 2026", managers can carry phones but not use them in the dugout. The protocol is published on the IPL's official website.

The Rules

The PMOA protocol clearly defines permissible phone usage. Team managers can use phones in the dressing room area, but NOT in the dugout.

Media managers are also allowed phones in the PMOA. However, their usage is strictly defined in the protocol.

 

"The Team Manager may use a phone in the Dressing Room area but NOT in the Dugout"

 

Potential Consequences

Bhinder's actions could lead to disciplinary action. He may be summoned by the match referee and anti-corruption unit.

The incident has gone viral on social media. It remains to be seen how the IPL Governing Council will respond.

 

"Managers and media managers carry the phone but the rules regarding its use are very clear. Using it in the dugout is a serious lapse..."

This is according to an IPL official.

 

Lalit Modi's Call for Action

IPL founding chairman Lalit Modi posted on X, urging the Governing Council to take "IMMEDIATE ACTION".

The PMOA includes areas like dressing rooms, dugouts, and the Match Referee’s room.

Two BCCI Anti-Corruption Managers ensure arrangements are in place at least 30 minutes before team arrivals.

Allowed Phone Usage

• Team Manager (Dressing Room only)
• Media Manager (Specific usage defined)

Players and staff must deposit their phones before entering the field. They can only retrieve them after the game concludes.

What to Watch Next

The IPL Governing Council is expected to review the incident and announce potential sanctions against Romi Bhinder. The anti-corruption unit's investigation will likely determine the severity of the punishment.