No more smart glasses: BCCI tightens security protocols for remaining IPL 2026 matches

New Delhi: The Anti-Corruption Unit of the Board of Control for Cricket in India has prohibited the use of smart sunglasses by competitors and match officials during the ongoing Indian Premier League, citing advanced integrated communication capabilities that facilitate live streaming and video transmission.

In an official advisory distributed to all tournament franchises, the BCCI’s anti-corruption wing noted that corporate entities have actively marketed and distributed the digital eyewear to roster members and team assistants.

"Kindly note that these devices are equipped with advanced communication features, including live streaming, sending and receiving text messages, as well as audio and video calling capabilities through mobile data or Wi-Fi networks," the governing body stated. "Accordingly, under the PMOA Minimum Standards, such goggles/glasses are classified both as an 'Audio/Video Recording Device' and a 'Communication Device'."

The regulatory directive clarified that the possession or operational deployment of the specialised eyewear is entirely forbidden within the designated Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA).

Under established league integrity protocols, personnel are barred from utilising communication hardware inside the PMOA. The enforcement of these rules was highlighted earlier this season when Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder incurred a 1 lakh rupee ($1,200) financial penalty and an official reprimand after broadcast cameras captured him operating a cellular device inside the team dugout during a fixture.

Mandatory Surrender of Electronic Devices

The newly issued advisory instructs participants to yield their smart sunglasses alongside standard prohibited electronics prior to entering restricted stadium sectors, warning of immediate disciplinary proceedings for non-compliance.

"All players and support staff are directed to deposit such devices with the Security Liaison Officer (SLO), along with their mobile phones and smartwatches, upon entering the PMOA on match days," the Board outlined. "Failure to deposit such devices shall be deemed a breach of the PMOA protocols and may result in penalties under the PMOA Minimum Standards for IPL 2026."

Heightened Security Frameworks

The 2026 IPL campaign has been marred by consecutive code of conduct infractions, forcing the BCCI to implement increasingly rigid behavioural guidelines. Prior to the tech ban, tournament organisers enacted a strict curfew that prohibited players from leaving team hotels late at night without explicit authorisation from corporate security personnel.

Furthermore, the governing body has banned external guests from entering the private hotel rooms of players and coaching staff, citing comprehensive security vulnerabilities and the specific threat of espionage or honey-trapping schemes.

With inputs from PTI