IPL 2026: Board of Control for Cricket in India May Act as Parag’s Viral Video Raises Rule Questions

On Tuesday evening, IPL 2026 match number 40 took place between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings in the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. Following the match, RR skipper Riyan Parag, 24, hit the headlines following his appearance smoking an e-cigarette in the dressing room. Video footage of the same is going viral on social media, with fans clamoring for punitive measures against him.

Riyan Parag, the captain of RR, was caught smoking an e-cigarette while the team was batting in the 16th over. A broadcast camera picked up the player blowing smoke through the device. He can be seen puffing and exhaling smoke. The footage quickly went viral, with many fans expressing concern and demanding action. This moment gained even more attention because it occurred just after Parag was dismissed. He had scored 29 runs from 16 balls but failed to continue his innings at a crucial moment in the chase.

The viral video has raised questions about potential disciplinary measures. While there are no clear public rules against e-cigarette use in the IPL, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strict guidelines for player behavior within stadiums. The use of tobacco or related products in the dressing room or dugout is generally prohibited under health and safety protocols, putting Riyan Parag at risk of action.