Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game following a recent incident involving Romi Bhinder, the manager of Rajasthan Royals, using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2026. Modi expressed concerns that the IPL has deviated from its original stringent anti-corruption framework and called for a return to stricter control and credibility through systematic measures.
Modi underscored the significance of upholding the sport’s integrity, stating that the IPL was initially established with a fundamental principle of ensuring the game’s integrity. He emphasized the implementation of anti-corruption protocols, restricted access, monitored communication, and operational discipline for players, umpires, and officials from the league’s inception to prevent opportunities for misconduct.
The incident, captured on live TV at the ACA Stadium, depicted Bhinder using a device while seated next to young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was observing the screen. The footage went viral, sparking concerns about a potential breach of the IPL’s stringent anti-corruption regulations, prompting the BCCI Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) to initiate an investigation into the matter.
According to the IPL’s Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, a Team Manager is permitted to use a phone in the dressing room area but not in the dugout. The BCCI ACU is currently verifying the incident details and conducting a thorough investigation to address any potential breaches of the league’s anti-corruption protocols.
Modi expressed his observations on the evolution of the IPL’s governance, noting a shift from stringent control to compliance over time. He emphasized the importance of integrating integrity into the system rather than managing it reactively, highlighting the need for enhanced enforcement and operational discipline to maintain the league’s credibility and integrity.
As per tournament rules, two BCCI Anti-Corruption Managers oversee the management of the PMOA to ensure proper arrangements and security measures are in place. The ongoing scrutiny of the incident involving Bhinder underscores the IPL’s commitment to upholding anti-corruption measures and safeguarding the integrity of the game.
