BCCI stops players from wearing Smart Sunglasses during IPL – BCCI Bans Smart Sunglasses in IPL 2026 Amid Corruption Concerns
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BCCI Tightens Security Protocols as IPL 2026 Reaches Climax
As the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) enters its final stages, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has doubled down on its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport. In a recent move aimed at closing potential loopholes, the board has issued a directive strictly prohibiting players and support staff from wearing ‘Smart Sunglasses’ during the tournament.
Why the Ban on Smart Sunglasses?
The directive follows observations made by the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), which noted an increasing number of companies marketing high-tech eyewear to team members. These devices are far from ordinary accessories; they are sophisticated gadgets equipped with features that raise significant alarm bells for cricket authorities.
According to the official memo issued by the BCCI, these smart sunglasses are capable of:
- Live streaming match footage
- Sending and receiving text messages
- Facilitating audio and video calls via Wi-Fi or mobile data
The board clarified its position by stating: ‘Under the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, smart sunglasses or goggles can be classified as a communication device or audio and video recording device. There is a strict prohibition on the use of such technology near the PMOA.’
A Zero-Tolerance Approach
The BCCI is leaving no room for interpretation. The mandate requires all players and team management personnel to surrender any such devices to security staff. The board has warned that any failure to adhere to these new rules will result in severe penalties. This follows a previous incident earlier in the season, where a Rajasthan Royals team manager was fined INR 1 Lakh for being caught on camera using a mobile phone, a clear violation of the existing communication device protocols.
This latest move is part of a broader push by the Indian cricket board to ensure that the IPL remains free from external influence and unauthorized communication, particularly as the season reaches its high-stakes conclusion.
Gujarat Titans Secure Place in IPL 2026 Final
While the administrative side of the tournament deals with new security measures, the action on the field has reached a fever pitch. The Gujarat Titans (GT) have officially punched their ticket to the IPL 2026 final after a dominant display against the Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2.
In a high-scoring encounter held in New Chandigarh, the 2022 champions secured a convincing 7-wicket victory. The Rajasthan Royals set a formidable target of 214/6, bolstered by a spectacular 96-run knock from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Despite his valiant effort, the total proved insufficient against a clinical Gujarat side.
The run chase was anchored by GT skipper Shubman Gill, who delivered a match-winning century, showcasing the class and composure that have become his trademarks. The Titans systematically dismantled the Rajasthan bowling attack, ensuring their progression to the summit clash.
The Final Showdown
With their victory in Qualifier 2, the Gujarat Titans are now set to face the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 final on May 31. Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting this marquee matchup, which promises to be a battle of nerves and talent. As the teams prepare for the ultimate showdown, the BCCI’s strict vigilance continues to ensure that the focus remains solely on the spirit and fairness of the game.
The final promises to be a historic occasion, and with the new directives in place, the board expects complete cooperation from all teams to ensure the final match is conducted with the highest levels of integrity.
