BCCI Fines Riyan Parag For Vaping During Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings IPL 2026 Match

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has landed in controversy after the BCCI penalised him for vaping inside the dressing room during Rajasthan Royals' IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings. The incident, which was caught on the live broadcast during the second innings, quickly went viral on social media and triggered sharp criticism from fans, with many demanding disciplinary action over conduct seen as damaging to the image of the tournament.

BCCI penalises RR skipper for Code of Conduct breach

The BCCI has now acted against Parag, imposing a fine of 25 per cent of his match fee and awarding him one demerit point for a Level 1 offence under the IPL Code of Conduct.

In its official statement, the board said: "Riyan Parag, Captain, Rajasthan Royals, has been fined 25% of his match fee and has also accumulated one Demerit Point for breaching Level 1 of the IPL's Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials during Match No. 40 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Punjab Kings."

The BCCI further clarified the specific nature of the violation, stating: "Riyan was found to have breached Article 2.21 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, which relates to "conduct that brings the game into disrepute." The incident occurred during the second innings when Riyan was seen using a vape inside the dressing room," the BCCI released a statement.

The controversy has come as an unwelcome distraction for Rajasthan Royals, with attention moving away from the team's on-field campaign and instead focusing on discipline and conduct off the field.

Parag accepts punishment, warning also issued

Riyan Parag has accepted the sanction handed down by match referee Amit Sharma, bringing the disciplinary process to a close at the Level 1 stage for now.

However, sources familiar with the developments told Hindustan Times Digital that the punishment did not stop with the financial penalty and demerit point. The Rajasthan Royals captain has also reportedly been warned against any repeat offence in the future.

A source said: "Yes, Parag has been fined 25 per cent of his match fees for bringing game into disrepute. A warning has also been issued to not repeat such mistakes. We urge everyone involve to exercise more responsibility,"

That warning underlines the seriousness with which the board is viewing the incident, especially because it unfolded publicly during a televised match and quickly spread online.

Viral broadcast moment sparks wider criticism

The moment took place during the 16th over of Rajasthan Royals' run chase, when Parag was seen using a vape inside the dressing room. Since the footage appeared during the live broadcast, it immediately drew widespread attention and became one of the biggest talking points from the match.

The act raised questions not only about player discipline but also about compliance with stadium regulations. Smoking and vaping are not allowed in dressing rooms or enclosed areas within stadium premises, except in designated smoking zones. That made the visual particularly controversial, as it suggested a clear breach of expected conduct from a team captain in a high-profile tournament.

Fans on social media were quick to react, with several users criticising the behaviour and calling on the BCCI to ensure the matter did not set the wrong example during the IPL season.

India's vape ban adds legal and reputational weight to episode

The issue has become even more sensitive because of India's tough legal position on e-cigarettes and vapes. Under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019, the production, sale, purchase, import, export and advertisement of vapes and e-cigarettes are banned in the country.

Because of that legal backdrop, the episode is being seen as more than just a breach of sporting discipline. It also carries reputational implications for both the player and the league, especially when the act was visible on national broadcast during one of India's biggest sporting events.

The BCCI has hinted that the matter may not end with Parag's individual punishment. In a strongly worded line, the board said: "The BCCI is also exploring other options to initiate proceedings for stringent action against the erring team, its officials and player/s to ensure that the reputation of IPL remains intact," the BCCI stated.

That remark suggests the board may still examine whether any additional accountability needs to be fixed beyond the Rajasthan Royals captain, as it looks to protect the league's image from further damage.