The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has intensified its enforcement of anti-corruption guidelines during the Indian Premier League (IPL), taking strict action against players, officials, family members, and broadcasters who create social media content, according to sources.
Broadcasters Reprimanded for Violations
Several former cricketers working as broadcasters have been reprimanded for filming videos near the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) this season. The BCCI had shared stricter guidelines with broadcasters before the IPL, including protocols for crew members.
One former international cricketer was found recording on his phone near the dugout during a tense match situation. The BCCI team intervened promptly to stop the recording. Legal notices may be sent to an ex-cricketer who filmed for his YouTube channel. The board has clearly stated that anyone wearing BCCI or IPL official attire cannot film at the ground.
Concerns Over Honey Traps and Reel Culture
The BCCI is also concerned about 'honey traps' arising from players' growing proximity to influencers and vloggers. There is a fear that the new generation of cricketers is becoming overly obsessed with posting content on social media. One Indian cricketer has already been advised to curb his habit of posting about the team's travel and other whereabouts.
Franchises have hired social media influencers and given them unfiltered access within the team, which has led to violations. The 'reel culture' has resulted in many breaches, with some Indian players posting videos on match days, just before and immediately after matches.
A former India cricketer was previously asked not to post content on his YouTube channel during an ongoing series. Immediate families of players have also been told to refrain from posting pictures and videos during the IPL.
Previous Warnings and Bus Travel Issues
The BCCI had earlier warned an India fast bowler after his wife created a video of the team's accommodation facilities. There have been instances in the IPL where a player almost reveals his inclusion in the playing XI through such reels.
The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has flagged the issue of senior international players allowing family or friends to travel in the team bus. Focus is also on local T20 leagues hosted by state associations.
Action in State T20 Leagues
BCCI ACU officers are present in team hotels during local T20 leagues, and anti-corruption guidelines apply there. However, some IPL players have taken liberties by bringing unauthorized guests to team hotels in these leagues, setting a poor example for young cricketers who aspire to reach the IPL through these leagues.
It is likely that all state T20 leagues will enforce the revised guidelines issued by the board.
