Riyan Parag is under fresh scrutiny after a viral dressing room clip from an Indian Premier League 2026 match showed him appearing to vape during a tense run chase. The moment came in the 16th over against Punjab Kings, shortly after Parag was dismissed for 29 off 16 balls. Broadcast cameras briefly caught him with what looked like a vape device while teammates continued the chase. The clip spread quickly online, shifting focus away from Rajasthan Royals’ win and raising questions about discipline, leadership, and possible rule violations.
The issue at hand is also legally binding since India has outlawed the use of e-cigarettes through the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. The ban prohibits any form of manufacture, importation, advertisement, possession, sale, purchase, offer for sale, and distribution of e-cigarettes. This comes alongside the IPL and BCCI ban on smoking in the dressing room, putting Parag at risk of breaching the code of conduct.
Legal trouble or just disciplinary action?
However, what needs to be determined right now is if this is indeed a matter for the courts. Although there are still ambiguities regarding legal action involving personal use, the law allows for punishment through fines or, in some instances, imprisonment. At least for now, the governing bodies of cricket have to watch the video recording. If proven guilty, Parag can be fined or punished according to league regulations. The public nature of the incident adds pressure on officials to act firmly.
