In a recent development during the IPL 2026 season, Rajasthan Royals' cricketer Riyan Parag was caught on camera vaping inside the dressing room during the match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals. The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism and calls for action from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Rajasthan Royals management.
Netizens React Strongly
Fans and critics alike took to social media to express their disappointment. One user wrote, "Performance matters the most. Now it will be interesting to see what action BCCI and RR management take. If strict action is taken and he is removed from the team, it may teach him a lesson." Another tweet read, "You all need to relax — Riyan Parag is not the first person to be seen using a vape during an IPL match." However, many others argued that such behavior sets a poor example for young fans.
Viral Video Sparks Debate
The footage, shared by user Ashish Soni, shows Parag casually vaping while seated in the dressing room. The incident has reignited discussions about player conduct and the enforcement of anti-smoking policies in cricket. While some defended Parag, citing that vaping is not as harmful as smoking, others emphasized that players are role models and must adhere to strict discipline.
Potential Consequences for Parag
As of now, neither the BCCI nor the Rajasthan Royals have issued an official statement. However, if the governing body decides to take action, Parag could face a fine or even a suspension. This is not the first time an IPL player has been caught in a controversy involving smoking or vaping, but the frequency of such incidents has raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing regulations.
The incident comes at a crucial time for Rajasthan Royals, who are fighting for a playoff spot. Parag, a key all-rounder, has had a mixed season with both bat and ball. His off-field actions may now overshadow his on-field contributions.
Netizens are closely watching how the BCCI and RR management respond. Many believe that strict action is necessary to maintain the integrity of the sport and set a precedent for future conduct. The debate continues, with opinions sharply divided between those calling for leniency and those demanding zero tolerance.
