Smart glasses banned in IPL? BCCI announces strict security rules
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "Smart glasses banned in IPL? BCCI announces strict security rules")
Virat Kohli Photograph: (BCCI/IPL)
The BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit has banned the use of smart glasses in IPL 2026 dressing rooms and other restricted areas over security and integrity concerns, with players and support staff instructed to deposit the devices on match days.
The BCCI has prohibited players and match officials from using smart sunglasses during IPL 2026, citing concerns over hidden communication and media-recording capabilities. The decision was communicated to all franchises and officials through the board’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACSU) after reports emerged that such devices were being promoted among players and support staff. In its advisory, the BCCI pointed out that these smart eyewear devices are capable of live streaming, exchanging text messages and making audio or video calls via Wi-Fi or mobile data networks.
“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 BCCI advisory read.
Because of these features, the board has categorised the gadgets as both communication and audio/video recording devices under the PMOA Minimum Standards and as a result, the use or possession of smart glasses has been completely banned inside the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA).
“Accordingly, under the PMOA Minimum Standards, such goggles/glasses are classified both as an ‘Audio/Video Recording Device’ and a ‘Communication Device’," the board said.
“It is hereby notified that the possession and/or use of ‘Smart Goggles’ is strictly prohibited within the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA)," it added.
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The latest directive strengthens existing regulations that already restrict electronic communication devices in sensitive match-related zones.
Earlier in the season, Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder faced disciplinary action after he was seen using a mobile phone in the dugout during a match and was fined INR 1 lakh and issued a warning by the board.
To ensure compliance, the BCCI has instructed all players and support staff to hand over smart glasses, along with mobile phones and smartwatches, to the Security Liaison Officer (SLO) before entering the PMOA on match days.
“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 said.
The board also warned that failure to surrender such devices would be treated as a violation of tournament protocols and may results in penalties under IPL 2026 regulations.
The move is part of the BCCI’s broader effort to tighten discipline during this year’s IPL season, which has already included stricter rules on player movement and restrictions on late-night outings without prior approval from security officials.
