The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a statement regarding serious anti-corruption protocol violations involving Rajasthan Royals (RR) team manager Romi Bhinder. The dugout manager used his mobile phone while sitting next to young batsman Vaibhav Suryavanshi, which created a major problem.
Rajasthan Royals defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Friday, April 10. Riyan Parag-led Royals remained unbeaten in the tournament after three matches, while Rajat Patidar-led RCB recorded their first defeat after two consecutive wins.
Trouble for Vaibhav Suryavanshi after violation of anti-corruption protocol
Television cameras clearly captured Romi Bhinder using a mobile phone inside the dugout during Rajasthan Royals’ eleventh over run chase. The footage also shows Vaibhav Suryavanshi sitting nearby and repeatedly looking at the phone screen.
Player and match official field protocol strictly prohibits the use of mobile phones in the dugout. While team managers can take phones into the dressing room, only designated analysts are allowed to use electronic devices on the tables during IPL matches.
The anti-corruption unit may seize and scan the phones used by Romi Bhinder to ensure complete transparency. The officials may also warn Vaibhav Suryavanshi to stay close to the device and watch it during the match.
Match referee Vengalil Narayanan Kutty monitored the game in Guwahati along with two anti-corruption officers. Their report will be crucial in deciding whether Romi Bhinder will face a fine, ban or a possible ban from the IPL.
We will conduct an internal examination – Devjit Saikia
Devjit Saikia confirmed that the BCCI will conduct a detailed internal investigation into the serious protocol breach. Saikia said the process would remain transparent, adding that officials would carefully review broadcast images and video footage before reaching a final conclusion.
Saikia told TOI, “Some persons are allowed to carry phones in the dugout and Romi Bhinder as a manager can carry it. But we need to thoroughly investigate where exactly the incident took place and whether a phone was used. We will conduct an internal investigation before reaching a logical conclusion.”
He said, “As I said, we will investigate it. We cannot act on what is being said. We will look at pictures, videos and whatever we can get before coming to a conclusion.”
Lalit Modi demands immediate action on Rajasthan Royals dugout controversy
Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi took to social media to condemn the controversial dugout incident involving Vaibhav Suryavanshi. He demanded immediate action from the Governing Council and questioned the effectiveness and awareness of the anti-corruption unit during the live broadcast.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India should resolve this issue quickly before Rajasthan Royals face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next match on Monday. Officials will have to decide whether Romi Bhinder will be allowed to sit in the dugout for that game.
The Anti-Corruption Code applies to all team officials and players. The IPL Governing Council now has limited time to investigate the matter and decide appropriate action against Romi Bhinder and Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
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