IPL 2026 Controversy: Riyan Parag Caught Vaping In PBKS vs RR — Rajasthan Royals Skipper Under Spotlight After Vaping Video Goes Viral

During IPL 2026, a television camera captured Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag vaping in the dressing room during the team’s match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. The video went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism from fans and intensifying scrutiny after Parag scored 29 off 16 balls in a losing chase. Although RR ended Punjab Kings’ winning streak, Parag’s off-field conduct dominated post-match conversation. The BCCI enforces strict player-behavior rules in stadiums, and Clause 2.2 of the IPL Code of Conduct allows for suspension, fines, or warnings for acts that discredit the game. With no clear public policy on vaping in stadiums, Parag also risks consequences under India’s Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, which bans manufacture, sale, purchase, import, export, and advertising of e-cigarettes and vapes and carries penalties including fines and imprisonment. The IPL had not issued an official statement at the time of reporting, but the incident has triggered debate over potential disciplinary action.

The report also references a prior breach involving RR manager Romi Bhinder, who was fined by the BCCI for using a phone in the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati earlier in the season. After an inquiry by the BCCI Anti-Corruption and Security Unit, Bhinder received a warning and a fine, with investigators concluding his medical condition necessitated the phone’s use.

(Source：NewsX)