ESPNcricinfo has learned that Bhinder, popularly known as Romi, told the ACU that the breach, in contravention of Article 4.1.1 of the IPL PMOA protocols, was inadvertent. Bhinder admitted to the offence and offered an unconditional apology. Bhinder, who has been with RR since 2008, is also believed to have cited ailing from Type 2 lung failure in his response. The ACU accepted his explanation and opted for a monetary penalty. A media release stated that he has also been “warned to exercise greater care in the future and to adhere strictly to the established guidelines”.

The incident came to light when pictures of Bhinder on his phone with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi next to him were put up on social media after the match against RCB. It has since been ascertained that Bhinder is also 15-year-old Sooryavanshi’s “local guardian” during the IPL.

On the IPL’s official website, the concerned clause regarding PMOA protocol 2026 states: “The team manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.”

RR are currently third on the points table, having won four out of five games this season.