Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Riyan Parag has found himself at the center of a major controversy during the IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) after visuals of him allegedly vaping inside the dressing room went viral across social media. The incident occurred during Rajasthan’s thrilling run chase against Punjab Kings on Tuesday and quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
Riyan Parag captured vaping inside RR dressing room
The broadcast cameras captured Parag during the 16th over of Rajasthan’s innings, where he appeared to be casually using what looked like an e-cigarette or vape device while sitting alongside teammates Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the dressing room. The clip spread rapidly online, with fans and critics questioning the seriousness of the act given the strict regulations around smoking and vaping inside stadium premises.
The visuals have triggered strong reactions because smoking is strictly prohibited inside dressing rooms and most stadium premises, except in specifically designated smoking zones. More importantly, the alleged use of a vape device has raised legal concerns, considering India’s nationwide ban on e-cigarettes under The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019.
Here’s the video:
Riyan parag was caught vaping in dressing room ,how it’s allowed inside dressing room bcci whats happening pic.twitter.com/BsYHuunBuj
— cherry_gems (@Introvert2core) April 28, 2026
Rules around vaping and stadium restrictions
Under the law, the production, sale, purchase, import, export, transport, storage, and advertisement of electronic cigarettes are prohibited. Violations of the Act can attract severe penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines. This has made the incident even more sensitive, as many believe players, especially captains, are expected to uphold discipline and set examples on and off the field.
While there has been no official statement yet from Rajasthan Royals, the BCCI, or Parag himself regarding the viral footage, the incident has already created a storm online. Fans are now waiting to see whether the board will review the matter and take disciplinary action.
Another controversy adds to RR’s challenging season
Interestingly, this is not the first controversy involving Rajasthan Royals this season. Earlier in this season, the franchise faced scrutiny when team manager Romi Bhinder was seen casually using his phone in the dugout, violating PMOA protocol. The moment was also caught on live television and later reviewed by the BCCI.
Following an internal examination, the board reportedly issued a warning and imposed a fine on Bhinder. With Parag’s latest controversy now making headlines, Rajasthan Royals once again find themselves under unwanted attention away from cricketing performances.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Donovan Ferreira propels Rajasthan Royals to remarkable chase against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026
RR complete stunning chase despite off-field drama
Despite the controversy, Rajasthan Royals produced one of the most memorable chases of the season. After winning the toss, Parag chose to bowl first, but Punjab Kings posted a massive 222/4 in their 20 overs. Prabhsimran Singh played a solid hand with 59 off 44 balls, while Marcus Stoinis completely changed the momentum with a brutal unbeaten 62 off just 22 deliveries, smashing four boundaries and six sixes.
In reply, Rajasthan Royals showed remarkable composure. Jaiswal led from the front with a fluent 51, while young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi contributed a valuable 43. The finishing touch came from Donovan Ferreira, whose unbeaten 52 guided RR home with four balls to spare, sealing a thrilling victory and keeping their playoff hopes alive.
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