In cricket, no stone remains unturned – and in this instance, it was the turn of the captain. In the Rajasthan Royals versus Punjab Kings match in IPL 2026, where the former chased 222 runs, the latter successfully achieving the six-wicket target, Riyan Parag was reportedly observed vaping during the course of the game. Interestingly, the video went viral, despite his team winning the match. However, what brought even more attention was the timing of the incident – it occurred in the middle of the game, and there were live broadcasts of the game. The clip reignited debate around discipline, legality, and player conduct, while also reminding fans that Parag is not the first cricketer to be caught in such a situation.
The issue goes beyond optics. In India, vaping is banned under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (2019). This law prohibits sale, use, and promotion of e-cigarettes. Inside IPL venues, smoking and vaping are restricted to designated areas. A dressing room violation can attract internal disciplinary action. It may also invite legal consequences. Hence, Parag’s act is both a breach of tournament rules and a violation of national law.
Caught Mid-Chase: Riyan Parag’s Viral Dressing Room Moment
The most recent issue involves Riyan Parag in IPL 2026. The episode occurred on April 28, 2026, at Mullanpur. Rajasthan Royals required 222 to beat Punjab Kings. The cameras switched to the dressing room at the sixteenth over. Riyan Parag was observed vaping while his team members, including Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal, were sitting close by. The visuals spread instantly.
Hence, focus was no longer on match-winning but on the players’ behavior. Reports have it that the BCCI might need to make some clarifications. Official statements have not come out yet. Nevertheless, since India is very strict about anti-vaping laws, this is quite a serious matter especially considering its timing.
Live TV Shock: AB de Villiers’ SA20 Slip
Before this, in early January 2026, AB de Villiers had been in such a predicament. He was caught in one of his games for SA20 between Pretoria Capitals and MI Cape Town, smoking from his electronic vape device. The footage appeared briefly on live broadcast and stadium screens.
De Villiers was visibly shocked when he saw himself being recorded. This video went viral in a short while. But since vaping is legal in South Africa, unlike in India, there were no repercussions. Nevertheless, the event received much condemnation. It raised questions about professionalism during matches.
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Flashback to 2020: Aaron Finch’s IPL Dressing Room Clip
It is not a novel occurrence. In IPL 2020, Aaron Finch had been witnessed vaping when the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals were playing each other. This match had taken place in the United Arab Emirates owing to the ongoing restrictions on traveling related to COVID-19.
This occurred while he was taking part in the last over of the run chase by RCB. The broadcast cameras captured him puffing out smoke in the dressing room. It did not take long for videos of this to go viral on social media platforms. The broadcaster quickly cut away, but the damage was done. The incident remains one of the earliest viral vaping moments in cricket.
Beyond Vapes: Rabada and Others Under Lens
In addition, other cricketers have been accused of smoking as well. Kagiso Rabada was caught smoking in an open area at the hotel balcony during the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Moving back to some old incidents, in the semi-final of the 2015 World Cup, Brendon McCullum confessed that he was smoking inside the toilets of the dressing room. Likewise, in the 2019 World Cup final, Ben Stokes disclosed that he had smoked in the toilets of Lord’s. These were private moments. Yet, once revealed, they sparked debate.
