BCCI warns IPL owners about ACU protocols [Source: AFP]Over the last few weeks, the IPL 2026 season has been surrounded by multiple controversies and Anti-Corruption protocol breaches by team management members, alongside issues including players bringing prohibited items to the ground. The BCCI has been looking into the matters, and the Secretary Devajit Saikia was seen speaking about them to the media, including the presence of unauthorised people around the players. In the latest development, they have issued a strict reminder to the IPL team owners regarding the same, threatening serious consequences in case of further breaches. IPL owners breach Anti-Corruption protocols in IPL 2026 For years, the IPL team owners have been seen at matches supporting their teams from the stands and special boxes. At the Mumbai Indians, the owners also have a special arrangement at the venue to get the best view of the game. However, as noted by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), the owners have come into proximity to the players. According to the very well-stated Player and Match Official Access Protocols, people outside the team management need to maintain a certain distance from the players to avoid any outside influence over the match. The use of mobile phones is also strictly prohibited here, which is another breach noted this season by both management and owners. “One of the most worrying aspects has been the behaviour of the team owners. They have been flouting rules and haven’t been cooperating. As evidence, there are photographs of them near the dugout. Some even carry their phones to the ground. They have been warned, but it hasn’t helped,” The Indian Express quoted a close source. Also Read: BCCI Punishes RCB Kingmaker For Major IPL Code Of Conduct ViolationBCCI slams IPL owners ahead of IPL playoffs In the last week, when the BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia met the media, he spoke about a few things that has been irking the ACU this season. Some of these include owners trying to communicate with the team members during the matches. On May 7, they even issued a 7-page official advisory, strictly reminding the owners to follow the protocols. “The BCCI has noted with concern that certain IPL franchise owners have not adhered to the Player and Match Official Access (PMOA) Protocol during the course of matches. Specifically, instances have been observed of IPL franchise owners attempting to communicate with, approach, hug, or otherwise physically interact with players and team members during live match situations.” “Such conduct, however well-intentioned, directly contravenes established protocol and may constitute interference with team dynamics and match proceedings,” said the advisory. Furthermore, the BCCI has asked the teams to keep unauthorised persons away from the players and team hotels after reports of a potential honey-trapping in IPL emerged recently. They have noted the severe consequences of any further misconduct, which could put the league’s reputation under threat. IPL 2026 moves into the business end 54 league matches of the IPL 2026 have been done and dusted. Two of the 10 teams, including the five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians, have been officially eliminated from the competition, winning only three of their 11 games. On the other hand, three teams are on 14 points each, one on 13 and two on 12 points. With the final 15 games in the league phase to go, the playoff scenarios are becoming interesting. The Delhi Capitals are next in line to potentially get knocked out of the league stage.Also Read: Dharamshala Stadium Pitch Report, Weather Report for PBKS vs DC Match 55, IPL 2026
