Vaibhav Suryavanshi ‘s Team Manager Caught Using Mobile Phone During Match In IPL 2026

By
Arshit Shane
Passionate sports writer and former athlete with experience covering cricket, football, MMA, esports, chess, golf, Kabaddi, and more. Combining firsthand sporting insight with engaging storytelling, I...
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Vaibhav Suryavanshi ‘s Team Manager Caught Using Mobile Phone: Recently, an issue came forward involving Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru while playing against each other in Guwahati for the Indian Premier League 2026. Manager Romi Bhinder was caught using his mobile phone in the dugout, which is against the IPL rules.

The incident took place when RR was batting in its 11th over. At that time, Bhinder was seen busy with his phone. He had Vaibhav Suryavanshi sitting right next to him, who seems to have looked at his phone once.

Why the “Manager Caught Using Mobile Phone” Incident Matters

The IPL provides for strict enforcement of both Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols. Managers of teams are permitted to carry mobile devices; however, their access to mobile devices is limited to certain locations (i.e., dressing room). The Dugout area is considered a restricted area.

The fact that Bhinder was sitting so close to players, specifically Vaibhav Suryavanshi, creates the potential for a breach of anti-corruption restrictions. The use of electronic communications within the dugouts is strictly monitored to protect against corruption in the conduct of matches.

Role of Romi Bhinder in Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Career

Romi Bhinder’s presence within a team extends beyond merely being a manager. He has also taken on that of mentor for an up-and-coming star in the IPL, Vaibhav Suryavanshi – possibly one of the youngest stars ever to play in IPL history. During his time with the Royal Challengers, Bhinder has been helping to develop Suryavanshi since his introduction.

Bhinder was also the first person to break the news to Suryavanshi regarding his selection at the auction in 2025 for ₹1.10 Crores.

Suryavanshi’s father has now also entrusted Bhinder with the responsibility of being the young cricketer’s guardian while he is playing in the IPL.

Given the close relationship that exists between the two, it provides additional context for the scrutiny surrounding the incident, because Suryavanshi was seated immediately next to Bhinder when the incident occurred.

PMOA Rules and Anti-Corruption Guidelines

PMOA guidelines strictly specify prohibited areas that include:

  • Dugouts
  • Changing rooms
  • Referee areas during matches
  • Designated spectator viewing areas

All these areas are controlled by the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. Unauthorised use of mobile phones in these areas is strictly prohibited.

Possible Disciplinary Action

The situation will be examined by match officials and the ACSU. If there is a violation, the consequences may include:

  • Cash fines

Limitations on match-related activities

Increased disciplinary action based on the degree of the violation

The IPL Governing Council will determine the outcome once all of the appropriate paperwork has been received.

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Passionate sports writer and former athlete with experience covering cricket, football, MMA, esports, chess, golf, Kabaddi, and more. Combining firsthand sporting insight with engaging storytelling, I strive to bring every match, strategy, and athlete’s journey to life for fellow sports enthusiasts who share the same love and passion for the game.