A fresh controversy has erupted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 after Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Riyan Parag was allegedly seen vaping inside the team dressing room. The incident reportedly surfaced through visuals that circulated on social media, quickly drawing criticism from fans and sparking debate about player conduct and professionalism during the tournament.
According to reports, the footage showed Parag using a vaping device in what appeared to be the team’s indoor area. While the exact timing of the incident remains unclear, the visuals gained traction online and prompted discussions about adherence to team rules and league regulations, especially given the IPL’s strict standards on discipline and public image.
Neither Rajasthan Royals nor the IPL governing body had immediately issued a detailed statement at the time the controversy broke. However, insiders suggest that the franchise management is likely to review the matter internally before deciding on any disciplinary action. The IPL has historically taken player conduct seriously, particularly when incidents risk setting a negative example for younger audiences who closely follow the league.
The episode adds to ongoing scrutiny around player behavior in the high-profile tournament, where athletes are not only performers on the field but also public figures representing their teams and sponsors. Whether the incident leads to formal penalties or remains an internal matter will depend on the findings of the franchise and league authorities in the coming days.
