The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has once again cracked down on IPL players and support staff. This time, a ban has been imposed on smart sunglasses. The BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit has issued a notice to all players and support staff, making it mandatory for everyone to deposit their smart sunglasses—as well as any other eyewear equipped with advanced technology—on match days. The Board had issued this advisory as early as May 18.
According to the BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ASCU), several companies are selling smart sunglasses and goggles to IPL players and other members of the staff, while simultaneously engaging in their aggressive promotion. Although these smart sunglasses appear ordinary in appearance, they possess advanced features—a fact that has heightened the concerns of IPL and Board officials. The ASCU states that such smart sunglasses are capable of not only recording video but also live-streaming content. Furthermore, they can send and receive messages using mobile data or Wi-Fi connectivity, and also facilitate audio and video calls.
BCCI has imposed a ban on wearing smart sunglasses
According to the new regulations, players and support staff will not be permitted to carry 'smart sunglasses' into the 'Players and Match Officials Area' (PMOA) on match days. The use of such eyewear has also been prohibited within the dressing rooms and dugouts. The ASCU believes that these devices could potentially be used to share live match information, thereby creating security risks during matches. Consequently, the Board has imposed a ban on smart sunglasses, placing them in the same category as other prohibited electronic devices. Upon entering the venue, players are required to deposit their smart sunglasses with the security officer. Additionally, mobile phones and all other electronic devices must also be deposited.
The BCCI has issued a stern warning stating that strict action will be taken against anyone found to be in violation of these regulations. It is pertinent to recall that during the 2026 IPL season, Rajasthan Royals manager Romi Bhinder was observed using a mobile phone in the dugout—an incident that sparked a major controversy.
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