Strict Advisory Issued

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has prohibited the use of smart sunglasses during Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, classifying them as potential communication devices that could compromise match integrity.

Anti-Corruption Measures Strengthened

In a fresh advisory to all IPL franchises, the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACSU) directed players, support staff, and match officials to deposit their phones, smartwatches, and smart sunglasses with the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) before entering the dressing room or dugout on match days. Any violation will invite strict action, including fines.

The move comes amid growing concerns over possible breaches in the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA). The board has also reiterated its earlier directives banning players from late-night outings without permission and restricting guests in hotel rooms, citing security and anti-honey-trapping measures.

Smart Sunglasses Classified as Risk

The BCCI has explicitly categorised smart sunglasses or goggles as both audio/video recording devices and communication devices. These gadgets, equipped with mobile data and Wi-Fi connectivity, allow live streaming, messaging, and calls — features that violate existing security protocols.

“These devices are equipped with advanced communication features, including live streaming, sending and receiving text messages, as well as audio and video calling capabilities through mobile data or Wi-Fi networks,” the board stated in its advisory. Possession or use of such smart goggles inside the PMOA is now strictly prohibited.

Recent Violations Prompt Crackdown

This latest directive follows multiple code of conduct breaches in the ongoing IPL season. Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was earlier fined ₹1 lakh by the ACSU after he was caught using a mobile phone inside the team dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati on April 10.

In another incident, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was penalised 25% of his match fee for smoking an e-cigarette in the dressing room during a game against Punjab Kings. E-cigarettes have been banned in India since 2019.

Public and Industry Reactions

The ban on smart sunglasses has drawn attention especially after cricketer Virat Kohli appeared in promotional campaigns for Meta’s smart glasses. While Kohli’s association was purely commercial, it highlighted the growing popularity of such wearable tech and the potential risks in high-stakes cricket environments.

Team officials across franchises have been briefed on the new rules. Many have welcomed the clarity, though some support staff privately expressed concerns over the increasing restrictions on match days.

Background and Broader Context

The BCCI has been progressively tightening its anti-corruption and security framework in the IPL. The league, which attracts massive viewership and betting interest globally, remains a high-priority area for the board’s vigilance unit. Officials believe such preventive steps are essential to protect the game’s integrity, especially with advanced gadgets becoming more common.

Players are expected to comply without resistance, though the additional checks may add to the pre-match routine for support staff managing multiple devices.

What Lies Ahead

With the IPL still midway through its season, the BCCI is likely to monitor compliance closely. Any repeat violations could lead to heavier penalties, including possible suspensions. The board is also expected to issue similar advisories for other cricket formats under its control in the coming months.

The development underscores the constant challenge of balancing player convenience with the need to safeguard cricket from external threats in an era of rapid technological advancement.

BCCI Briefs IPL Captains on Ball Replacement Rules

Board to clarify key playing conditions like two-bouncer rule and saliva ban ahead of IPL 2026 season in captains' meet today.

Captains' Briefing Set

BCCI officials will brief all 10 IPL captains on critical playing conditions today. The session targets rules on ball replacement, two-bouncer limits, and bat checks. Javagal Srinath and Nitin Menon lead the discussion from 4:30 pm to 6 pm.

Franchises received updated guidelines earlier. These cover Rule 4.4 on second-innings ball changes and saliva restrictions. Sources say the meeting ensures no mid-season confusion.

Key Rules Spotlighted

Ball replacement grabs main focus. Umpires change balls unfit due to wear, matching old one's condition. They notify batter and captain immediately.

In evening matches' second innings, bowling side requests one change post-10th over. Captains ask at over's end only. Umpires hold final say anytime.

Updated Conditions Circulated

BCCI shared the playing conditions document with teams. It details Rule 5.8.3 for bat checks and 18.5 on short runs. No big shifts from last season, but clarifications abound.

Innings timer sticks at 60 seconds. Impact Player and concussion substitutes remain. Code of conduct gets review too, per reports.

Srinath, Menon Address Teams

Former pacer Javagal Srinath heads match referees. Nitin Menon oversees umpires. They explain two-bouncer rule, retired-out cases, and fielder limits under Rule 28.7.6.

IPL COO Hemang Amin opens proceedings. Franchises confirm captains' attendance. This follows recent auctions and franchise sales buzz.

Background on Changes

Last season saw debates over saliva use and ball wear. BCCI banned saliva post-COVID, enforcing dry-ball play. Two-bouncer per over aids pacers in T20s.

Bat checks rose after tampering claims. Updated rules integrate umpire reviews with DRS under Appendix D-3.9. Franchises pushed for clear protocols.

Impact on IPL 2026

Teams gain level field ahead of IPL 2026. Captains like RCB's and KKR's vice-captain Rinku Singh prepare better. Players avoid penalties on toss sheets or broadcast duties.

Fans expect tighter games. Bowlers benefit from replacement clarity, curbing dew excuses. Franchises adjust strategies now.

Public Interest Story

Latest news today highlights BCCI's proactive step. India news update stresses fair play in IPL. English news portal India covers this as essential government updates for cricket fans.

Sources indicate smooth rollout. No major tweaks signal stability post-auctions.

What Lies Ahead

Captains disperse with rule book in hand. IPL 2026 trials follow soon. BCCI monitors compliance via referees.

Franchises train under new norms. Expect refined T20 action come season start. Trending news India eyes this as public interest story.