Virat Kohli [Source: AP Photos]The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a strict new rule during IPL 2026. The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has instructed all players and support staff to surrender smart glasses and other advanced eyewear before entering restricted match-day areas. This decision has been taken to avoid any misuse of technology during matches.Interestingly, this move comes shortly after India star batter Virat Kohli promoted smart AI-powered glasses in India. As a result, many people are connecting the new BCCI advisory with the growing use of wearable technology in cricket.Virat Kohli’s Smart Glasses CampaignRecently, Oakley and Meta Platforms partnered with Virat Kohli to launch Oakley Meta Performance AI glasses in the Indian market. The campaign became extremely popular because it showed Virat Kohli’s training routines, match preparation, and behind-the-scenes moments.Moreover, the promotional video gained more than a billion views and received around 5.3 million likes. During IPL 2026 practice sessions, Virat Kohli was also seen wearing the glasses regularly. However, despite the popularity of the product, the BCCI has now decided to tighten its rules regarding such devices.Watch the video below:Why Has BCCI Banned Smart Glasses?According to a report by Cricbuzz, the ACSU warned IPL teams that smart glasses, sunglasses, and goggles equipped with communication and recording technology are not allowed inside restricted areas on match days.The ACSU reportedly informed the BCCI that several companies are actively promoting and selling smart eyewear products to IPL players and support staff. These devices are capable of live-streaming, sending text messages, and making audio or video calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data.As a result, the ACSU believes these devices could create serious integrity and security risks during matches. Therefore, the BCCI has classified them as “Audio/Video Recording Devices” and “Communication Devices” under the IPL’s Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) rules.Also Read: Will IPL 2026 Be The Last Season Of Virat Kohli?Recent Incidents In IPL 2026 Increased ConcernsMeanwhile, a few recent controversies in IPL 2026 have also increased the BCCI’s concerns regarding technology and behavior inside restricted areas.Earlier, Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was fined Rs 1 lakh for using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match. Because of such incidents, the ACSU has decided to make security rules stricter. Strict Rules for IPL Players And Staff MembersUnder the new guidelines, players and support staff must deposit smart glasses along with their mobile phones and smartwatches before entering restricted zones on match days. These devices must be handed over to the Security Liaison Officer.The BCCI has also warned that any player or staff member who fails to follow the rule could face penalties for violating PMOA protocols.The advisory clearly stated: “With wearable technology becoming more sophisticated and concerns growing over covert communication methods, the ACSU’s latest crackdown underlines the league’s attempt to stay ahead of evolving integrity risks during one of world cricket’s most commercially significant tournaments.”Overall, the BCCI’s latest action shows that protecting the integrity of the game remains its top priority, especially in a tournament as important and commercially successful as the IPL.Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Busts Massive Scam Of People Impersonating Him On Social Media
