IPL 2026: BCCI official responds to Riyan Parag’s vaping episode during PBKS vs RR match

An official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly responded to the infamous case of Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Riyan Parag, who was spotted dragging a vape during an IPL match. The BCCI has said that they will be summoning the cricketer in the matter and seek an explanation before taking any step in regard to it.

Notably, Parag was spotted smoking a vape inside the dressing room during Match No. 40 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh, on Tuesday, April 28. The visual of Parag vaping during a live match has sparked a major controversy, more so since the activity is also a punishable offence in India.

“We will be seeking an explanation from Riyan on this issue, as vaping is not allowed. Depending on his explanation, the IPL will take further course of action,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

Riyan Parag vape episode: What actually happened?

During the sixteenth over of the PBKS vs RR encounter on Tuesday, the live broadcast panned the camera towards the visiting dressing room, where the Royals skipper was caught smoking a vaping device, while his teammates Dhruv Jurel, Yudhvir Singh Charak and Kuldeep Sen were sitting around the Guwahati-born. Fans were shocked to notice this instance and have questioned the act during a professional match.

What is the punishment for vaping in India?

For the unversed, vaping is a punishable offence in India, where the first-time guilty are eligible for a fine of up to INR 1 lakh or imprisonment of up to 1 year, or both. For repeat offenders, the fine ranges up to INR 5 lakh, while the imprisonment in jail can be sentenced for a period not exceeding three years. Since this is the first time such an episode with Parag has come to light, he may be fined as a first-timer if found guilty.