NEW DELHI, May 8: The BCCI has banned unauthorized visitors from accessing hotel rooms of players, support staff and team officials during the IPL, warning of risks including honey traps, legal liability and security threats, following incidents of misconduct flagged by its Anti-Corruption Unit.
In an advisory issued to all 10 franchises, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said written approval from team managers will be mandatory for any guest seeking access to players’ or officials’ rooms.
The Board said the move comes after multiple instances of protocol violations during the ongoing season, cautioning that such lapses could damage the tournament’s reputation and expose individuals and franchises to serious risks.
It noted that some players and staff had allowed unauthorised persons into hotel rooms without the knowledge of team managers, a practice now strictly prohibited with immediate effect.
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been issued, mandating prior written approval for any guest entry and urging franchises to remain vigilant against potential honey trapping and other forms of targeted compromise.
The BCCI also barred players and support staff from leaving team hotels at irregular hours without informing designated security and integrity officials, adding that periodic checks will be conducted and violations could invite penalties, suspension or disqualification.
Separately, the Board flagged breaches by franchise owners, accusing some of interacting with players during live matches in violation of protocol. It has now prohibited owners and their representatives from accessing players or officials in restricted zones during matches.
The advisory further banned the use of vapes and e-cigarettes at all IPL venues, warning that such acts violate both tournament regulations and Indian law. (Agencies)
