BCCI Bans Unauthorized Access to Player Rooms, Cites Security and Legal Risks

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a strict ban on unauthorised persons entering hotel rooms of players, support staff, and team officials during the Indian Premier League, warning of potential honey traps, legal exposure, and security threats. The directive, issued to all 10 franchises, requires written authorisation from team managers for any guest access to private rooms.

The move follows incidents of misconduct and protocol violations during the ongoing IPL season, which the BCCI said could lead to reputational damage, legal allegations under Indian laws on sexual misconduct, and targeted compromise. The Board's Anti-Corruption Unit flagged cases where team managers were unaware of visitors in players' rooms, prompting the immediate enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures to maintain discipline and security.

Players and staff are also barred from leaving team hotels during irregular hours without informing their Security Liaison Officer and Team Integrity Officer. The BCCI further prohibited IPL franchise owners and representatives from communicating with or approaching players in dugouts, dressing rooms, or playing areas during live matches, citing interference with team dynamics.

The directive explicitly bans the use of vapes and e-cigarettes in all tournament venues, including team hotels and practice facilities, noting their prohibition under Indian law. This follows an incident involving Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag, who was seen vaping on the dressing room balcony during a match.

The BCCI will conduct periodic compliance checks, with violations subject to sanctions including fines, suspension, or disqualification. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.