Riyan Parag faces possible IPL ban after vaping in Rajasthan Royals dressing room

Key facts

• Riyan Parag was caught vaping in the dressing room during the 16th over of RR's chase against Punjab Kings on Tuesday.
• The incident was witnessed by teammates Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Kuldeep Sen.
• Parag is leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 after Sanju Samson moved to Chennai Super Kings.
• He has scored only 81 runs in seven innings prior to the match, drawing criticism for batting inconsistency.
• Despite the controversy, RR chased down 222 with six wickets, handing PBKS their first loss of the season.
• India's Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019, bans e-cigarettes nationwide.
• Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in IPL stadium premises except in designated zones.
• The BCCI is likely to seek an explanation from Parag before deciding on disciplinary action.

Vaping controversy erupts during IPL 2026 match

Riyan Parag, the 24-year-old captain of Rajasthan Royals, faces potential disciplinary action from the Board of Control for Cricket in India after being caught vaping in the dressing room during a match against Punjab Kings on Tuesday. The incident occurred in the 16th over of Rajasthan's chase, with teammates Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Kuldeep Sen present. The BCCI has stated it is exploring options for stringent action to protect the IPL's reputation.

BCCI weighs ban under strict anti-vaping rules

The BCCI is expected to seek an explanation from Parag before considering disciplinary measures, which could include a ban from the IPL. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited within IPL stadium premises, except in designated zones. India's federal laws are even more stringent: the country banned e-cigarettes under The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019. A BCCI official was quoted as saying, 'Depending on his explanation, the IPL will take further course of action.'

Parag's leadership under scrutiny amid poor form

This controversy comes at a challenging time for Parag, who took over as Rajasthan Royals captain in the 2026 season after Sanju Samson moved to the Chennai Super Kings. He has struggled with batting consistency, scoring only 81 runs in seven innings before this match, drawing criticism from fans and former players. The off-field distraction adds pressure on the young leader.

Rajasthan Royals secure victory despite distraction

Despite the incident, Rajasthan Royals successfully chased down a target of 222 with six wickets in hand, handing Punjab Kings their first loss of the season. Parag contributed 29 runs off 16 balls in the chase. The team's performance on the field contrasted sharply with the brewing disciplinary issue off it.

Legal and regulatory backdrop tightens

India's Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, makes the possession and use of e-cigarettes a punishable offense, reflecting the country's strict stance against vaping. The IPL's own rules mirror this prohibition, banning smoking and vaping in stadium premises except in designated zones. Parag's actions thus violate both league regulations and national law.

What lies ahead for Parag and the IPL

The BCCI's next steps hinge on Parag's explanation. If found in violation, he could face a ban from the IPL, which would be a significant blow for Rajasthan Royals. The incident also raises questions about enforcement of rules in dressing rooms. As the league continues, the board's response will set a precedent for player conduct.

The bottom line

• Riyan Parag was caught vaping in the dressing room during an IPL match, violating league and national bans.
• The BCCI is considering a ban or other stringent action against the Rajasthan Royals captain.
• Parag has been struggling with form, scoring only 81 runs in seven innings this season.
• India's PECA 2019 bans e-cigarettes nationwide, adding legal weight to the IPL's prohibition.
• Rajasthan Royals won the match against Punjab Kings, but the controversy overshadows the victory.
• The BCCI will decide on disciplinary action after receiving Parag's explanation.