His remarks also referenced the recent punishment handed to Riyan Parag. Earlier in the tournament, the Rajasthan Royals captain was fined 25 per cent of his match fees after being caught vaping inside the dressing room during a match against Punjab Kings.
The controversy comes shortly after the BCCI circulated a detailed directive to all IPL franchises regarding tournament conduct. In the communication, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia reminded teams that vapes and electronic cigarettes are prohibited under Indian law and strictly banned across IPL venues, team hotels, dressing rooms and practice facilities.
“Instances of vaping within dressing rooms and other restricted areas of tournament venues have been brought to BCCI’s attention,” Saikia wrote in the official communication.
“Accordingly, the use of vapes, e-cigarettes, and all prohibited substances is strictly banned within all IPL tournament venues, including dressing rooms, dugouts, team hotels and practice facilities,” he added.