Rajasthan Royals’ skipper Riyan Parag faced criticism for vaping on camera during their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. The footage showed Parag using a vape device in the dressing room while his teammates Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Kuldeep Sen were present. This incident raised concerns about player behavior in the tournament, especially as vaping is illegal in India under The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019.
The Act prohibits the production, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertisement of e-cigarettes and vapes in India, with violators facing imprisonment and hefty fines. An IPL source suggested that Riyan should face a ban for his actions, emphasizing the need for players to maintain proper conduct, especially with the presence of numerous broadcast cameras capturing their every move. This incident follows a recent fine imposed on another player for using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match.
The IPL’s playing regulations do not explicitly ban vaping but stress the importance of maintaining decorum in dressing rooms and other areas. Questions have been raised about how Parag managed to bring a vape into the dressing room, highlighting the need for stricter measures. While nicotine is not banned, the BCCI is expected to take action against Parag for the incident, given the uncertainties surrounding the contents of vape ingredients and the need for players to uphold high standards of behavior during matches.
