Rajasthan Royals team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder has been cleared of any wrongdoing after a controversial moment during the Indian Premier League 2026. The incident happened in Match 16 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati.
Bhinder was seen using a mobile phone while sitting in the dugout. This raised concerns because mobile phones are not allowed in that area under strict anti-corruption rules. The matter was reviewed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India and its Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU).
Fine imposed despite clean chit
Even though no wrongdoing was found, Bhinder was fined ₹1 lakh for breaking protocol rules. The IPL released an official statement explaining the decision.
“Rajasthan Royals Team Manager, Ravinder Singh Bhinder, has been fined INR 1 Lakh for breaching the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols during Match 16 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati on April 10, 2026. The breach relates to the use of a mobile phone in the team dugout, which is in contravention of Article 4.1.1 of the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols. Acknowledging the lapse, Mr. Bhinder admitted to the offence and offered an unconditional apology,” read the official IPL statement.
The officials considered this a minor breach. Bhinder has been with Rajasthan Royals since the first IPL season in 2008. This was his first offence.
Bhinder also shared that he had a medical emergency. He submitted documents related to lung issues. This was taken into account during the decision.
“As this was his first breach under the prescribed protocols, a fine of INR 1 Lakh has been imposed in accordance with Article 7.42(a) of the BCCI IPL PMOA Protocols. He has also been warned to exercise greater care in the future and to adhere strictly to the established guidelines,” the statement continued.
Young RR player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was seen sitting near Bhinder. However, he was not part of the investigation.
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