Someone says the BCCI told Punjab Kings’ Arshdeep Singh to quit making social media videos right now. Trouble started when part of his recent clip drew attention – fans online claimed Yuzvendra Chahal used a vape mid-flight, going from Ahmedabad to Hyderabad. Though nothing came from the player or team, insiders mention officials want him off vlogging till the season ends. Not long ago, another moment like this popped up in IPL 2026 – cameras spotted Rajasthan Royals’ Riyan Parag puffing a vape in the locker area during a game versus Punjab Kings, costing him a quarter of his pay.
Friday morning brought a seven-page note from the BCCI to all ten IPL teams. Danger looms, it said, in the form of planned honey traps aimed at players. Each franchise now has clear warnings folded into strict directives. The tone was serious, not alarmist. Specifics were outlined without drama. Trust must be guarded, the message implied. Silence around such risks could cost more than matches.
Flying in without warning, the board plans spot inspections to keep everyone inside the league’s thick rulebook. Checks arrive out of nowhere, stitching compliance into daily operations through constant unpredictability.
Even close friends can’t step into a player’s room unless the team manager says so first, Saikia pointed out, following the rules laid down. Entry is blocked completely if permission hasn’t been cleared ahead of time, no matter who you are or how well you know the person inside.
In his communication to all the franchises, Saikia has noted that “The BCCI / IPL Operations Team may conduct periodic checks to assess adherence to the directives set forth in this Advisory. Team Managers are required to maintain records of all approved guest visits and hotel movements.”
Furious at the misconduct, BCCI warned that anyone caught doing it could face serious legal charges under existing laws.
“Instances of vaping within the dressing room and other restricted areas of tournament venues have been brought to the BCCl’s attention. It is pertinent to note that the use of vapes and electronic cigarettes is prohibited under applicable Indian law. Any individual found engaging in such conduct within tournament premises is not only violating BCCI and IPL regulations but may also be committing a cognisable offence under the applicable statutory framework,” Saikia stated in the directive.
Midway through the game, those who own franchises must stay silent toward anyone on the bench. Communication stops when play begins – no words to athletes or managers once the match runs. Ownership sits back, hands off conversation until the final whistle blows.