BCCI Warns Over ‘Honey Trapping’, Issues Strict 8-Page Directive to IPL Teams

BCCI has reportedly issued an 8-page directive to IPL teams, warning against honey trapping, unauthorised visitors and protocol breaches.

Board of Control for Cricket in India has issued a strict warning to all 10 IPL franchises after identifying multiple protocol breaches during IPL 2026. According to reports from the PTI, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia circulated an 8-page directive to IPL team CEOs, stressing the need for stronger discipline, professionalism and security awareness across the tournament.

The board raised concerns over incidents involving players, support staff and team officials during the ongoing season. Saikia warned that repeated violations could damage the reputation of the IPL and also create serious legal and security risks for franchises and individuals.

“It has come to the attention of the BCCI that certain incidents of misconduct and protocol violation have occured involving players and support staff and team officials during the course of the current IPL season. These incidents if left unaddressed, carry the potential to cause significant reputational harm to the tournament, the Franchise concerned and the BCCI as the Governing Body. They may further expose individuals and franchises to legal liability and security risks of serious nature,” the report read.

Unauthorized Visitors and Hotel Access Rules

The BCCI expressed concern after discovering that some players and support staff allowed visitors into hotel rooms without informing team managers. According to the board, several team managers remained completely unaware about these visits.

To prevent further issues, the BCCI has enforced these rules immediately:

• No guest can enter a player’s or support staff member’s hotel room without prior written approval from the Team Manager.
• Friends, relatives and visitors must stay only in public hotel areas such as the lobby or reception lounge.
• Players cannot escort visitors to private rooms unless the Team Manager grants written permission.
• Every player and support staff member must inform the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) or Team Integrity Officer (TIO) before leaving the hotel at any time.
• Players must also communicate personal outings or recreational trips well in advance.
• The SLO and TIO will maintain detailed movement logs for every team.
• BCCI operations officials can request these logs anytime during the tournament.

BCCI also warned franchises about the dangers of “honey trapping” and targeted compromise in high-profile sporting environments. Officials stated that such incidents could create serious legal allegations under Indian law, including cases related to sexual misconduct or corruption concerns.

Restrictions on Franchise Owners and Officials

The BCCI directory for IPL teams targeted franchise owners and senior officials after reports emerged of owners entering restricted areas and interacting with players during live matches.

The BCCI reminded franchises that the Players and Match Officials Access (PMOA) protocol remains mandatory for everyone associated with IPL teams.

The board introduced these matchday rules:

• Franchise owners cannot communicate with players inside dugouts, dressing rooms or playing areas during matches.
• Owners and officials cannot hug, approach or physically interact with players during live action.
• All restricted-zone access must follow official PMOA clearance procedures.
• Franchise management must brief owners, sponsors and associates about IPL regulations before every match.
• Any breach of restricted-area protocol will count as a serious violation.

The BCCI feels such interactions could interfere with team strategy, concentration and overall match proceedings.

Vaping and Prohibited Substances

The board reacted strongly after Riyan Parag appeared on camera vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room earlier this season. The incident drew criticism from former cricketers and fans.

The BCCI reminded franchises that Indian law prohibits e-cigarettes and vaping devices. The advisory warned that anyone using such products inside IPL venues could face both disciplinary and legal action.

WATCH ALSO | Riyan Parag Fined 25% Match Fee for Vaping Incident in IPL 2026

The new anti-vaping regulations include:

• Complete ban on vapes and e-cigarettes inside dressing rooms, dugouts and practice facilities.
• Ban extended to team hotels and all official IPL tournament premises.
• Players, staff and officials cannot carry prohibited substances inside restricted areas.
• Franchises will remain responsible for enforcing the rules within their squads.

Saikia has warned franchises that future violations could lead to suspensions, fines and legal action.

What Teams Must Do Now

The BCCI placed direct responsibility on team managers and authorised franchise officials for ensuring complete compliance with the new rules.

Franchises must now follow these instructions:

• Conduct a mandatory team briefing within 48 hours of receiving the advisory.
• Obtain written acknowledgment from every player and support staff member confirming they understand the rules.
• Maintain a formal guest approval system for hotel visitors.
• Keep written records of every approved guest daily.
• Coordinate with the SLO and TIO to maintain movement logs for all players and staff leaving or returning to team hotels.
• Report every protocol breach immediately to IPL Operations or venue officials.

READ ALSO | Yuzvendra Chahal Caught Smoking Inside Airplane Amid Riyan Parag Row

Possible Punishments for Violations

The BCCI confirmed it will carry out regular audits and inspections during the remainder of IPL 2026. The board also warned that every breach will count as a serious disciplinary matter.

Possible punishments include:

• Show-cause notices to franchises or individuals.
• Financial penalties under IPL regulations.
• Suspension or disqualification from IPL seasons.
• Referral to law enforcement agencies in cases involving prohibited substances, harassment or security breaches.
• Additional action decided by the IPL Governing Council.