During an IPL match against Punjab Kings on April 29, 2026, Riyan Parag was caught vaping in the dressing room, igniting a wave of controversy. This incident not only breaches team protocols but also potentially violates national laws regarding e-cigarettes.
The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), enacted in 2019, prohibits the use of e-cigarettes across India. Vaping is strictly forbidden inside IPL stadiums, except in designated smoking zones. Yet, here was Parag—vaping in front of teammates Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel.
Following this incident, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced it would seek an explanation from Parag. A BCCI official stated, “We will be seeking an explanation from Riyan on this issue, as vaping is not allowed.” Depending on his response, further action may follow.
Violations under PECA can lead to serious consequences—imprisonment for up to one year and/or a fine of ₹one lakh. The BCCI is known for its strict adherence to code of conduct rules within stadiums. This makes Parag’s actions particularly troubling.
Despite the controversy, the Rajasthan Royals managed to win the match by six wickets, chasing down a target of 223 runs. However, this victory has been overshadowed by the fallout from Parag’s actions.
The incident has sparked a heated debate online about sports conduct and responsibility. Critics argue that Parag’s act could set a poor example for younger players within the team. After all, health and safety procedures regarding tobacco or tobacco-based products are in place for a reason.
Earlier in the season, Rajasthan Royals’ manager Romi Bhinder faced disciplinary action for using a mobile phone in the dugout. This sets a precedent for how seriously the BCCI treats violations—something that may weigh heavily on Parag’s situation.
The BCCI’s next steps hinge on how they interpret Parag’s explanation. This incident raises questions about accountability within teams and the influence players have on each other. What does this mean for young athletes watching their idols? The implications could be far-reaching.
