BCCI stops players from wearing Smart Sunglasses during IPL – BCCI Bans Smart Sunglasses in IPL 2026 Due to Security Risks

BCCI Tightens Security: Smart Sunglasses Banned in IPL 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has significantly tightened its regulatory framework during the business end of the IPL 2026 season. In a bid to safeguard the integrity of the tournament and prevent potential security loopholes, the Indian Cricket Board has issued a strict directive prohibiting players and support staff from wearing Smart Sunglasses. This decision comes as part of a series of rigorous measures implemented by the board this season to maintain absolute compliance with anti-corruption protocols.

The Anti-Corruption Unit Flags Smart Wearables

The restriction on smart eyewear was initiated after the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) observed that several commercial entities were marketing and selling these high-tech products directly to players and coaching staff. With technology advancing rapidly, these accessories are no longer mere fashion statements or sun-protection gear; they have evolved into sophisticated communication tools.

According to an official memo issued by the BCCI and reported by PTI, these devices pose a direct threat to the sanctity of the dressing rooms and the field of play. The board’s memo stated:

“These sunglasses are equipped with advanced features for communications, which help with live streaming, the ability to send and receive texts, as well as audio and video call features, which can be done via Mobile Data or Wi-Fi.”

Because of these capabilities, the BCCI has ruled that such high-tech eyewear can easily bypass traditional communication bans if brought into restricted zones.

Strict PMOA Rules and Penalties for Violations

Under the established anti-corruption guidelines, the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) is a strictly monitored zone where no unauthorized electronic communication is permitted. The BCCI’s directive made it clear that smart eyewear falls directly under the prohibited category:

“Under the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA), Smart Sunglasses or Goggles can be classified as a Communication Device or Audio and Video Recording device, and there is a strict prohibition of using such devices near the PMOA.”

To enforce this rule, the BCCI has mandated that all players and franchise management members must hand over any such smart devices to designated security personnel before entering restricted areas. The board has warned that any individual or franchise failing to adhere to these strict laws will face severe penalties.

This is not the first time the BCCI has cracked down on electronic devices during the IPL 2026 season. Earlier in the tournament, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) team manager was fined INR 1 Lakh after being caught on camera using a mobile phone within the restricted zone. This latest directive serves as a final warning to all franchises that no lapses in security protocol will be tolerated as the tournament reaches its climax.

A Season of Rigorous Rules

The ban on smart sunglasses is the latest in a line of strict policy decisions made by the BCCI during this edition of the IPL. Just a few weeks prior to this memo, the board sent a clear message regarding team discipline by forbidding players’ girlfriends from traveling with the squad or staying in the same team hotels. By restricting off-field distractions and tightening on-field security, the BCCI is ensuring that the tournament remains highly focused and completely secure.

On-Field Drama: Gujarat Titans Secure Spot in IPL 2026 Final

While the administrative bodies are busy securing the sidelines, the action on the pitch has reached a fever pitch. In Qualifier 2, held in New Chandigarh, the Gujarat Titans (GT) put on a clinical performance to defeat the Rajasthan Royals by 7 wickets, booking their ticket to the grand finale.

The Rajasthan Royals, batting first, put up a highly competitive total of 214 for 6 on the board. The star of the Rajasthan innings was the young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played a sensational knock of 96 runs. His explosive batting put the Titans’ bowling attack under immense pressure, setting up what looked like a daunting chase for the 2022 champions.

Shubman Gill’s Masterclass Seals the Chase

However, the Gujarat Titans proved why they are one of the most formidable chasing sides in the tournament. Led by a magnificent, match-winning century from captain Shubman Gill, the Titans executed their run chase with absolute precision. Gill’s masterclass deflated the Rajasthan Royals’ bowling unit, leaving them with no answers as the Titans cruised to a comfortable 7-wicket victory.

With this emphatic win, the Gujarat Titans have set up a highly anticipated clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2026 Final. The ultimate showdown is scheduled to take place on May 31, promising a blockbuster finish to an action-packed season of cricket.