IPL – BCCI Tightens Matchday Rules With Smart Eyewear Ban
IPL – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new restriction aimed at strengthening anti-corruption safeguards during the Indian Premier League. Through its Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), the board has prohibited players, support staff, and match officials from carrying or using smart goggles and other advanced smart eyewear inside designated match-related secure zones. The decision follows concerns that these devices could compromise existing security measures because of their built-in communication and recording functions.
New Technology Raises Security Concerns
According to an internal communication circulated to IPL franchises, the ACSU was recently informed that several companies have been promoting technologically advanced eyewear products to cricketers and team personnel. These devices are designed with features that go far beyond traditional sunglasses, allowing users to communicate and exchange information through internet connectivity.
Officials noted that such products can support live video transmission, messaging services, voice communication, and video calls through mobile networks or Wi-Fi connections. Because of these capabilities, the devices have been classified as both communication tools and audio-video recording equipment under the competition’s security regulations.
Strict Prohibition Inside Protected Areas
The ACSU has made it clear that smart eyewear will not be allowed within the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA), one of the most tightly controlled sections of an IPL venue. The directive applies to all players, coaching staff, analysts, and other support personnel associated with participating teams.
Under the updated protocol, anyone entering the PMOA on a match day must surrender smart goggles along with other restricted electronic devices before gaining access. The board has instructed teams to hand these items over to the Security Liaison Officer (SLO), who will ensure they are stored securely until the individual leaves the restricted zone.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The anti-corruption unit has also warned that failure to follow the new rule will be treated seriously. Any individual found carrying or using prohibited smart eyewear within the secure area could face disciplinary action under the PMOA Minimum Standards applicable to IPL 2026.
The communication emphasized that ignoring the surrender requirement would be considered a direct violation of established security procedures. The ACSU has urged franchises to ensure complete compliance and to educate players and staff about the updated regulations before match days.
Understanding the Players and Match Officials Area
The PMOA functions as a highly secure section within a stadium and is governed by separate accreditation and access rules. Entry points are monitored by security personnel throughout match operations, and only a limited group of authorized individuals can enter.
Those permitted access generally include players, team support staff, match officials, officials assisting match operations, and a small number of accredited personnel whose roles require them to be present in the area. The objective is to maintain a controlled environment where the risk of unauthorized communication or interference is minimized.
Existing Restrictions Remain in Force
The latest directive adds to a set of anti-corruption measures that have already been in place for IPL participants. Current regulations restrict the use of mobile phones and other communication devices inside the PMOA, with only a few specific exceptions.
Team managers are permitted to use mobile phones within dressing room areas but not while stationed in the dugout during matches. Analysts may use approved computer systems at designated workstations for performance-related duties.
Meanwhile, players and support staff are required to switch off mobile phones, smartwatches, and other communication-enabled devices upon arrival at the venue and deposit them with the team’s security liaison officer. Accredited operational staff, including dressing room attendants, catering personnel, and match management officials, are also prohibited from carrying communication devices into the secure zone. To support these rules, secure storage facilities are available at PMOA entry points across IPL venues.