New Delhi, May 8: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken significant measures regarding discipline and safety for IPL 2026. On Thursday, the board issued an eight-page advisory to all ten franchises, outlining strict protocols for players, support staff, team officials, and franchise owners.
BCCI Secretary Devjeet Saikia emphasized in a letter sent to all teams that several incidents of protocol violations have occurred in the current season. The board considers these violations a serious threat to the tournament’s integrity and safety.
Saikia stated that all stakeholders associated with the IPL are expected to adhere to professional conduct, discipline, and safety regulations. He warned that failure to control these incidents promptly could harm the reputation of the BCCI, franchises, and the tournament itself.
The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) had also submitted reports on certain incidents, which led to the issuance of this new advisory.
Under the new guidelines, entry of any unauthorized person into players’ and support staff’s hotel rooms is strictly prohibited. The board clarified that players or support staff must inform and obtain approval from the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) or Team Integrity Officer (TIO) before leaving the hotel.
The BCCI has instructed teams to maintain a record of every player’s movement. Any private or recreational activities outside the hotel must be communicated to the team manager in advance. If necessary, this record must be submitted to the BCCI operations team.
The board expressed dissatisfaction with the behavior of some franchise owners. The advisory noted that certain owners were found attempting to interact with players, hug them, or access the dugout and dressing room during live matches. The BCCI has clearly stated that this constitutes a violation of protocols.
From now on, no franchise owner or their representatives will be allowed direct contact with players and team officials during matches. They must strictly adhere to the Players and Match Officials Access (PMOA) protocol.
The BCCI also highlighted threats such as “honey traps” and targeting players during high-profile sporting events. The board warned that such incidents could lead to serious legal issues, urging all franchises to remain vigilant at all times.
Additionally, e-cigarettes and vaping have been completely banned in IPL venues, dressing rooms, dugouts, and team hotels.
The BCCI has directed team managers and franchise officials to convene a meeting within 48 hours to inform players and staff about the new rules. Written confirmation from all relevant parties will also be required to ensure compliance.
The board made it clear that strict action will be taken against any violations of these rules. Guilty franchises or individuals may receive a show-cause notice. Financial penalties may be imposed, and players, support staff, or team officials could be suspended from the current or next IPL season. In serious cases, legal agencies may also be involved.
The BCCI stated that it will conduct audits periodically to ensure all franchises comply with these guidelines.
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