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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Romi Bhinder (Source: X)
Rajasthan Royals’ perfect start in the ongoing IPL 2026 has been overshadowed by a controversy involving team manager Romi Bhinder and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The incident occurred during their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati, where Romi Bhinder was seen using a mobile phone inside the dugout.
The video quickly went viral online, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also appearing to look at the device.
Why was Romi Bhinder using his phone in RR dugout beside Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?
The issue has drawn attention because IPL rules strictly limit the use of electronic devices in match areas. Following the incident, the BCCI'S Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has launched an investigation and served Bhinder a notice.
“We have asked the ACSU to investigate and file a report on the incident,” IPL Governing Council chairman Arun Dhumal told the publication (The New Indian Express).
According to the same reports, Romi Bhinder needs to submit an explanation within 48 hours.
Reports now suggest that Romi Bhinder's actions may have been linked to a serious past medical condition. According to sources, he had previously suffered a life-threatening health emergency in which both his lungs collapsed.
He reportedly spent nearly a week on a ventilator and close to a month recovering in a hospital in Nagpur.
Due to this history, Romi Bhinder is believed to have been carrying his phone for medical reasons, possibly to stay in touch with doctors or for emergency communication.
“Both of his lungs had collapsed and that medical emergency meant he spent nearly a month in a Nagpur hospital," The New Indian Express quoted a source as saying.
Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi To Be Punished For Romi Bhinder's Act? BCCI Issues Official Statement
“Romi has lost more than 10 kilos due to medical issues. He has asthma as well because of which he is advised not to walk a long distance or climb stairs frequently. He is with the team and performed various roles for the franchise. Hence, he knows the rules and regulations, but that phone was in his possession due to medical reasons," the daily quoted another source as saying.
Will BCCI punish Romi Bhinder and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?
It is important to note that a team manager may use a mobile phone only in the dressing room, and no other devices are permitted in the dugout. However, it is vital to note that Romi was neither making nor receiving any calls.
He was only scrolling through the phone, which may still raise doubts, but is different from active communication.
“Besides, possessing a mobile phone and a laptop in the dugout is allowed as per the protocol. The only problem was the usage but again he was not making calls or receiving any of them. He was just scrolling his phone. He has time and he will try to explain his point of view to the ACSU officials," the source added.
According to the reports, Romi Bhinder will also have the chance to explain his side of the story to ACSU officials. These officials are responsible for ensuring that no rules are broken, especially related to fair play and anti-corruption.
“We are hopeful that the ACSU officials will keep Romi’s medical conditions in mind before arriving at a conclusion. The problem was he had to walk at least 50 steps before climbing around 20 steps to reach the dressing room and do the same to return to the dugout. That must have forced him to check the phone at the dugout itself," the source said.
Rajasthan Royals off to flying start in IPL 2026
The Rajasthan Royals have made a strong start to the IPL 2026 season. They are currently at the top of the points table after winning all four of their matches so far.
The team has been in excellent form. Their openers, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal, have given solid starts in every game, helping the team build big scores.
The bowling unit has also played an important role in their success. Led by Ravi Bishnoi, the bowlers have controlled matches well and taken important wickets at the right time.
RR, under the leadership of Riyan Parag, will face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 13, 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Also Read: Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Hyderabad, Pitch Report, Weather Report For SRH Vs RR Match 21, IPL 2026
