Paras Dogra To Be Suspended? BCCI Code Of Conduct Explained After Headbutt In Ranji Trophy Final

Paras Dogra with BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla. Image Credits: X

The Ranji Trophy 2026 final between Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka took an ugly turn when J&K captain Paras Dogra lost his cool and headbutted the opposition fielder early on Day 2 at the Hubli Cricket Ground on Wednesday. 

The incident occurred in the 101st over of J&K's innings, when Dogra and Kanhaiya Wadhawan were in the middle of a promising partnership, keeping J&K’s progress steady. 

After Dogra edged a delivery from Prasidh Krishna for four, a few words were exchanged between the J&K captain and substitute fielder KV Aneesh at forward short leg. Dogra straightaway charged at Aneesh, headbutted him with his helmet, before Mayank Agarwal intervened. It is believed that Aneesh’s constant sledging triggered Dogra.

As things escalated, Paras Dogra apologised, accepting his mistake, but the Karnataka fielder outrightly rejected it. 

Now, the question arises as to what action will be taken against the J&K captain by the BCCI and to what extent the batter will be punished. 

Will BCCI Punish Paras Dogra After The Headbutt Incident in Ranji Trophy 2026 Final 

It is important to note that in cases of on-field fighting or physical contact or violence during domestic cricket matches, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treats such incidents under its Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials, specifically focusing on, but not limited to, Articles 2.12 (Inappropriate Physical Contact) and 2.19 (Act of Violence). 

Also Read: Watch- Paras Dogra Headbutts Karnataka Player, Massive Fight Erupts In Ranji Trophy Final

Sanctions are imposed by the Match Referee and can include, but are not limited to, multi-match suspensions and heavy financial penalties. Meanwhile, actions taken by the BCCI can range from fines to long-term bans, depending on the severity and intent of the action. 

Disciplinary Actions by the BCCI/Match Referee

According to the BCCI Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials, the following sanctions may be imposed if a player fights, punches, or kicks another player, official, or spectator: 

1. Match Suspensions: A player may be suspended for 3 or more matches, or for a specific period of time.
2. Fines: Players can be fined a significant percentage of their match fee (up to 100%, depending on the severity).
3. Level 4 Offence Criteria: Fighting is categorised under Article 2.19 (Acts of Violence), which is the most severe level, often involving physical assault.
4. Disciplinary Action: The incident is referred to the BCCI Disciplinary Committee, which can impose further bans from the tournament or even central contracts. 

The 41-year-old Paras Dogra has a brilliant reputation as a veteran domestic player, featuring in 140 first-class games. However, if the apex body of cricket in India, the BCCI, convicts him under the Code of Conduct, Dogra’s prominent prestige will be severely marred. 

Paras Dogra Crosses 10k-Mark In His Potentially Last Domestic Season   

Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir skipper, Paras Dogra, became the second player to cross the 10,000-run mark in the history of the Ranji Trophy. The 1984-born achieved the feat during the ongoing second semi-final of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, being played between Jammu and Kashmir and Bengal in Kalyani.

Dogra's 10,000th run in India's premier First Class competition came when he completed the 11th run of his innings. The BCCI posted a video on X celebrating the moment Dogra reached the 10,000-run mark.

Meanwhile, J&K are playing their first final and are seeking their maiden Ranji Trophy title. Karnataka have won eight times so far. They have lost six times in the final. It remains to be seen who wins this time.

Also Read- Angry Gautam Gambhir Storms, Hurls Mouthful At His Own Team After South Africa Loss