BCCI Cracks Down On Security Breach Risks In IPL, Warns Players Against Honey Traps

NEW DELHI, May 8: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a strict security advisory to all 10 Indian Premier League franchises, introducing tighter regulations for players, support staff and team officials following multiple incidents of misconduct and breach of protocol during the ongoing IPL season.
The advisory, circulated by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, warned franchises about the growing dangers of “honey traps”, reputational damage, legal complications and security threats in high-profile sporting environments.
BCCI Tightens Rules After Protocol Violations
The Board stated that several incidents involving players and support staff had raised concerns within the league’s Anti-Corruption Unit. According to the communication, some individuals allowed unauthorised visitors into hotel rooms without informing team management.
The BCCI said such behaviour could create serious security vulnerabilities and negatively impact the image of both franchises and the tournament.
The new guidelines have been implemented immediately to reinforce professionalism, discipline and adherence to tournament protocols.
Written Approval Mandatory For Hotel Room Visitors
Under the revised rules, no guest will be allowed access to players’ or officials’ private hotel rooms without written clearance from the team manager.
The Board instructed franchises to closely monitor movement inside team hotels and ensure proper authorisation procedures are followed at all times.
The advisory highlighted that high-profile tournaments often become targets for organised attempts at manipulation and exploitation, including honey trapping and other compromising situations.
The BCCI further warned that such incidents could potentially lead to legal allegations under Indian laws related to misconduct and inappropriate behaviour.
Players Asked To Inform Security Before Leaving Hotels
The Board has also prohibited players and support staff from leaving team hotels at unusual hours without prior information being shared with designated security officials.
Franchises have been directed to coordinate closely with Security Liaison Officers and Team Integrity Officers to ensure constant monitoring during the tournament.
The BCCI added that surprise inspections may be conducted to check compliance with the newly introduced measures. Violations could invite penalties ranging from financial sanctions to suspension or disqualification.
Owners Restricted From Dugout And Dressing Room Access
The advisory also addressed concerns regarding team owners and franchise representatives entering restricted zones during live matches.
According to the Board, certain owners were seen approaching players, attempting conversations and engaging in physical interactions during match proceedings, actions considered inappropriate under existing IPL operational protocols.
The BCCI has now barred franchise owners and representatives from directly interacting with players or team officials inside dugouts, dressing rooms or playing areas while matches are in progress.
Access to restricted areas will now be strictly regulated under Players’ and Match Officials Access guidelines.
Vaping And E-Cigarettes Completely Prohibited
The Board additionally reiterated that vaping and electronic cigarettes are banned under Indian law and cannot be used inside tournament venues.
The warning came days after visuals of Riyan Parag allegedly vaping during a match circulated widely on social media, triggering public criticism.
Without naming any player directly, the BCCI clarified that use of vapes, e-cigarettes and prohibited substances will not be tolerated in dressing rooms, dugouts, hotels or practice facilities linked to the IPL.
Officials stated that any individual found violating the rule could face disciplinary action as well as legal consequences under applicable Indian laws.