Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Rian Parag during which he found himself at the center of a great controversy IPL 2026 collide against Punjab Kings (PBKS) Footage of him allegedly smoking in the dressing room has gone viral on social media. The incident took place during Rajasthan’s thrilling run-chase against Punjab Kings on Tuesday and soon became one of the most talked about moments of the night.
Riyan Parag smoked in the RR dressing room
Broadcast cameras captured Parag during the 16th over of Rajasthan’s innings, where he casually used what appeared to be an e-cigarette or vape device while sitting with his teammates. Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the locker room. The clip quickly went viral on the internet, with fans and critics questioning the seriousness of the move given the strict rules on smoking and vaping inside the stadium premises.
The visuals have caused strong reactions, as smoking is strictly prohibited in the dressing rooms and most stadium buildings, except in designated smoking areas. More importantly, given India’s nationwide ban on e-cigarettes under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) in 2019, the alleged use of the vape device has raised legal concerns.
We present the video:
Riyan parag caught smoking in dressing room how is it allowed in dressing room bc what happens pic.twitter.com/BsYHuunBuj
— cherry_gems (@Introvert2core) April 28, 2026
Rules regarding vaping and stadium restrictions
According to the law, the production, sale, purchase, import, export, transportation, storage and advertising of electronic cigarettes is prohibited. Violation of the law can lead to serious penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines. This made the incident all the more sensitive as many believe that players, especially captains, are expected to maintain discipline and lead by example on and off the field.
While there is no official statement yet from Rajasthan Royals, BCCI or Parag itself regarding the viral footage, the incident has already created a storm on the internet. Fans are now waiting to see if the board will look into the matter and take disciplinary action.
Another controversy adds to RR’s difficult season
Interestingly, this is not the first controversy involving Rajasthan Royals this season. Earlier this season, the franchise faced scrutiny when he became the team manager Romi Bhinder He was seen carelessly using his phone in the shelter in violation of PMOA protocol. The moment was also captured on live television and later reviewed by BTSO.
According to reports, after an internal investigation, the board issued a warning and fined Bhinder. With the recent Parag controversy now making headlines, Rajasthan Royals have once again come under unwanted scrutiny away from their cricketing performances.
Despite off-field drama, RR complete stunning chase
Despite the controversy, Rajasthan Royals pulled off one of the most memorable chases of the season. After winning the toss, Parag elected to bowl first but Punjab Kings posted a massive 222/4 in 20 overs. Prabhsimran Singh He played a solid hand with 59 off 44 balls Marcus Stoinis He completely transformed his relentless unbeaten 62 off just 22 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and six sixes.
In reply, Rajasthan Royals showed excellent composure. The young sensation Jaiswal took the lead with a smooth 51 Vaibhav Suryavanshi provided valuable 43 contributions. It came from the final touch Donovan Ferrera, whose unbeaten 52 managed RR home with four balls to spare, seal a thrilling victory and keep their playoff hopes alive.
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