The Board of Control for Cricket in India has issued a strict warning to all 10 IPL franchises over possible honey-trap threats during the 2026 season.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has sent a formal communication to the teams, asking them to remain alert and take preventive steps to avoid serious controversies involving players, support staff or officials.
The board has made it clear that it will conduct surprise checks in players’ hotel rooms. Any violation of the new guidelines will be treated seriously and may invite strong disciplinary action.
In a seven-page advisory issued on Thursday, Saikia said the BCCI wanted all franchises to take note of the risks of targeted compromise and honey-trapping in high-profile sporting environments.
He also warned that such incidents could lead to serious legal allegations, including those related to sexual misconduct.
According to the advisory, a special task force comprising BCCI and IPL Operations team members has been formed to conduct hotel room checks and monitor compliance.
The BCCI said team managers must maintain proper records of all approved guest visits and hotel movements. Any breach must be reported immediately to the IPL Operations Team or the concerned IPL Venue Team.
As per the new directive, outsiders will not be allowed into the rooms of IPL players or team members without prior approval from the team manager, irrespective of their personal relationship with the player or official.
Players and support staff have also been instructed to inform and obtain clearance from the Security Liaison Officer or Team Integrity Officer before leaving the team hotel at any time. Any personal, recreational or other movement outside the hotel must be communicated to the team manager and security officials.
The BCCI has warned that any violation of these instructions will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter. Action may be taken under IPL regulations, BCCI rules and other applicable laws.
Possible penalties include show-cause notices, financial penalties, suspension or even disqualification, depending on the nature of the violation.
Franchises have been asked to treat the advisory with seriousness and ensure full compliance. The BCCI has also reserved the right to conduct periodic audits and inspections.
In another instruction, the board has warned IPL franchise owners not to communicate with players or team managers in the dugout during matches.
