BCCI Fines Rajasthan Royals Manager for Dugout Protocol Breach

Rajasthan Royals team manager, Romi Bhinder, was fined Rs 1 lakh by BCCI for using his phone in the dugout during an IPL match against RCB, violating PMOA protocol. Bhinder, who admitted to the breach, received a warning following an unsatisfactory response to the showcause notice issued by the board.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a Rs one lakh fine on Rajasthan Royals team manager, Romi Bhinder, for a breach of protocol during an IPL match. The incident, which occurred during a game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10 in Guwahati, involved Bhinder using his phone in the dugout.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the decision was made after Bhinder responded unsatisfactorily to the board's showcause notice. The anti-corruption unit, led by Sharad Kumar, found Bhinder guilty of violating the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocol, which prohibits phone use in the dugout but allows it in the dressing room.

Following the investigation, Bhinder admitted to the breach and offered an unconditional apology. Sources suggest Bhinder's health issues may have contributed to the incident, but the BCCI has reiterated the strict no-phone policy in the dugout to maintain the integrity of the game.

(With inputs from agencies.)