Riyan Parag fined 25% of match fee for vaping in IPL dressing room

Key facts

• Riyan Parag was fined 25% of his match fee for breaching Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct.
• Parag accumulated one Demerit Point for using a vape in the dressing room during the second innings of Match 40.
• The incident occurred during the IPL 2026 match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.
• Match Referee Amit Sharma imposed the sanction, which Parag admitted and accepted.
• The BCCI is exploring options for stringent action against the team, its officials, and players.
• Rajasthan Royals team manager was also caught on camera using a mobile phone in the dugout.
• Kumar Sangakkara, RR director of cricket, said controversies are not a positive reflection of the team.

Parag penalized for vaping during PBKS vs RR clash

Riyan Parag, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, has been fined 25% of his match fee and handed one Demerit Point after he was caught vaping inside the dressing room during the second innings of Match 40 of the Tata Indian Premier League 2026 against Punjab Kings. The incident, which occurred on the field of play, was deemed a breach of Level 1 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials. The specific violation falls under Article 2.21, which prohibits “conduct that brings the game into disrepute.” Parag admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction imposed by Match Referee Amit Sharma. The fine and demerit point were confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an official statement.

BCCI warns of stricter measures to protect IPL reputation

The BCCI has indicated that it is exploring additional options to initiate proceedings for more stringent action against the erring team, its officials, and players. The board’s secretary emphasized that teams must “maintain some decorum so that the image of the IPL is never adversely affected.” This statement underscores the league’s determination to uphold its reputation amid a series of disciplinary issues. The Rajasthan Royals team manager was also observed using a mobile phone inside the team dugout, adding to the team’s recent conduct concerns. Kumar Sangakkara, the team’s director of cricket, acknowledged that such controversies are “not a positive reflection of the team,” signaling internal recognition of the problem.

Code of conduct breaches and disciplinary actions in IPL 2026

The Parag incident is not isolated. The IPL has seen multiple code of conduct breaches this season. In Match 43 between Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals, Kyle Jamieson was also penalized for a breach. The league’s disciplinary framework includes fines, demerit points, and potential suspensions for repeat offenders. The BCCI’s crackdown reflects a broader effort to maintain discipline and sportsmanship. The board’s statement specifically referenced “ensuring that the reputation of IPL remains intact,” indicating a zero-tolerance approach to behavior that could tarnish the league’s image.

Ravichandran Ashwin weighs in on the controversy

Veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin commented on the Parag vaping row, stating that “this could have been avoided.” His remarks highlight the avoidable nature of the incident and the unnecessary distraction it creates for the team. Ashwin’s perspective carries weight given his experience in the league and his role as a senior player. The incident has sparked debate among fans and pundits about player conduct and the pressures of captaincy. Parag, who is in his first season as Rajasthan Royals captain, now faces scrutiny not only for his on-field performance but also for his off-field behavior.

Wider context: IPL 2026 disciplinary trends and team responses

The IPL 2026 season has witnessed several disciplinary actions, including fines for players and officials. The BCCI’s proactive stance aims to preempt any erosion of the league’s brand value. Teams are being reminded of their responsibility to uphold the game’s integrity. Rajasthan Royals, in particular, have been under the spotlight due to multiple infractions. The team management is expected to take internal measures to prevent recurrence. Sangakkara’s public acknowledgment of the issue suggests that the franchise is aware of the need for corrective action.

What lies ahead for Parag and Rajasthan Royals

Parag’s accumulation of a Demerit Point places him at risk of suspension if further breaches occur. The IPL’s code of conduct stipulates that four demerit points within a season can lead to a ban. The young captain must now tread carefully to avoid further sanctions. The BCCI’s exploration of “stringent action” against the team could result in additional penalties, such as fines or point deductions. The board’s commitment to preserving the IPL’s reputation suggests that it will not hesitate to impose severe measures if necessary. For Rajasthan Royals, the coming weeks will be crucial in demonstrating adherence to the league’s standards.

A test of leadership and league governance

The Parag vaping incident has become a litmus test for both the player’s leadership and the IPL’s disciplinary framework. How the BCCI and Rajasthan Royals handle the fallout will set a precedent for future conduct. The league’s ability to enforce its code consistently will be watched closely by stakeholders. Ultimately, the episode underscores the challenges of managing young talent in a high-pressure environment. While the IPL continues to grow in stature, incidents like these remind all parties that the game’s integrity must remain paramount. The outcome of the BCCI’s deliberations will likely shape the league’s disciplinary landscape for seasons to come.

The bottom line

• Riyan Parag was fined 25% of his match fee and received one Demerit Point for vaping in the dressing room during an IPL match.
• The BCCI is considering stricter action against Rajasthan Royals and its officials to protect the IPL's reputation.
• Kumar Sangakkara admitted the controversy is not a positive reflection on the team.
• Ravichandran Ashwin commented that the incident could have been avoided, highlighting its preventable nature.
• The IPL has seen multiple code of conduct breaches in 2026, including Kyle Jamieson's penalty.
• Parag's demerit point puts him at risk of suspension if further breaches occur.