IPL 2026: Riyan Parag Accused of Smoking in the Dressing Room; Will the BCCI Punish the Rajasthan Royals Captain?

On Tuesday during IPL 2026, Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Riyan Parag—a 24-year-old—grabbed headlines during a match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in New Chandigarh. A video allegedly showing him using a vape inside the RR dressing room has reportedly gone viral. Now, media reports suggest that the BCCI may penalize Riyan Parag and the RR management; strict action could be taken against them.

When did the incident occur?

The incident took place during the 16th over of the second innings, when a broadcast camera briefly captured Parag holding an object that appeared to be a vape.

This footage went viral rapidly, prompting many fans to express concern and demand action. The moment garnered even greater attention because it occurred immediately after Parag had been dismissed.

He had scored 29 runs off 16 balls but failed to carry his innings forward at a crucial juncture while chasing the target.

Will the BCCI take action?

As this video began circulating widely on social media, it raised questions regarding potential disciplinary measures. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strict guidelines governing player conduct within stadiums. Under health and safety protocols, smoking or using tobacco and related products within dressing rooms or dugouts is generally prohibited, with such activities permitted only in designated areas. Consequently, Riyan Parag now faces the looming threat of disciplinary action. The clip has also sparked controversy because e-cigarettes—or vapes—are banned in India under the ‘Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019.’ This legislation prohibits their manufacture, sale, purchase, and usage; violations can result in fines and even imprisonment.

Could Riyan Parag face punishment for vaping? As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the IPL regarding this clip or any potential breach of the Code of Conduct. However, following this incident, discussions regarding potential disciplinary action have intensified. The IPL has historically adopted a strict stance regarding conduct within dressing rooms and team areas. Earlier this season, Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was fined ₹1 lakh after being spotted using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match; he was also issued an official warning.

In recent times, several viral videos involving players off the field have surfaced, including a clip featuring Kagiso Rabada that garnered significant attention on social media. While every case is unique, the league has consistently taken action whenever violations of its regulations are identified. If the clip involving Riyan Parag is deemed a violation of the IPL Code of Conduct, he could face a fine or other disciplinary measures. Currently, all eyes are on whether or not the league decides to officially address this matter.

Parag Enduring a Slump in Form

This controversy has emerged at a time when the young player is already grappling with significant challenges. Following Sanju Samson’s departure to the Chennai Super Kings, Parag is currently leading the Rajasthan Royals in the 2026 season. He has been struggling to maintain consistency in his batting; so far this season, across nine innings, he has managed to score only 117 runs at an average of 14.36 and a strike rate of 124.46. Consequently, he has faced criticism from both fans and former players.

RR Defeats Punjab

Despite this off-field turmoil, the Rajasthan Royals successfully chased down a target of 223 runs with six wickets in hand, defeating the Punjab Kings and handing them their first defeat of the season. Batting first, Punjab posted a total of 222 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Prabhsimran Singh scored 59 runs off 44 balls, Priyansh Arya made 29 runs off 11 balls, and Cooper Connolly played an innings of 30 runs off 14 balls. Captain Shreyas Iyer managed to score 30 runs off 27 balls. Marcus Stoinis remained unbeaten after smashing a blistering 62 runs off 22 balls. In reply, Rajasthan chased down the target in 19.2 overs, losing four wickets. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 51 runs off 27 balls, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi played an innings of 43 runs off 16 balls. Captain Riyan Parag scored 29 runs off 16 balls. Donovan Ferreira remained unbeaten with 52 runs off 26 balls, and Shubham Dubey remained unbeaten with 31 runs off 12 balls.