Who is Romi Bhinder? IPL controversy erupts over Rajasthan Royals' manager seen using phone with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in dugout, PMOA protocol breach

Rajasthan Royals' long-time team manager Romi Bhinder has stoked a controversy after TV cameras caught him using a mobile phone in the team dugout during their IPL match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The incident was first shared on Instagram by a social media influencer. Now, it has been confirmed that Romi Bhinder was indeed using a mobile phone with teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi sitting beside him during the Royals' six-wicket win in Guwahati on Friday.

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"Yes, Bhinder has indeed breached the protocol of the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) as cell phones are banned in the dugout during match," a BCCI official told news agency PTI. On IPL's official website, the concerned clause regarding PMOA protocol 2026 states: "The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout."


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Who is Romi Bhinder?

Romi Bhinder is the long-time manager of Rajasthan Royals. According to the information available on World Cricket Academy, Romi Bhinder is an integral part of the WCA team, particularly focused on the formation of franchises and new projects in India.

Romi Bhinder: Cricket Journey, WCA Leadership & IPL Experience

Romi Bhinder has been deeply involved in cricket throughout his life, building a strong foundation through club cricket in the UK and representing Vidarbha, Maharashtra, and Nagpur University at various district-level competitions. His extensive playing experience has shaped his expertise in the sport and strengthened his position within the cricketing ecosystem.

As a key member of WCA, Romi Bhinder is known for his passion for cricket and sports development. Over the years, he has built and managed a highly efficient team that travels across the country conducting roadshows, promoting cricket, and training aspiring players through the structured WCA learning approach. His contribution has played a significant role in expanding grassroots cricket development.

Currently, Romi is actively working on multiple early-stage initiatives under the Institute of Sport, focusing on long-term sports development. He is also leading the development of a new residential cricket academy near Nagpur, Maharashtra, aimed at nurturing young talent with professional training infrastructure.

In addition to his academy work, he has supported a successful cricket-based reality TV show that gained nationwide popularity. His experience also includes facilitating key operations during franchise selections and trials in the Indian Premier League. Romi has served as a Liaison Officer for Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural IPL season and later worked as Assistant Manager in season three.

Academically, Romi Bhinder holds a Master’s degree in Sports Psychology from the University of Maharashtra, further strengthening his expertise in athlete performance and mental conditioning. Romi Bhinder could face closer scrutiny, especially after Sooryavanshi referred to him as his "local guardian" during the post-match presentation.

(With PTI inputs)