Riyan Parag has landed in a fresh IPL 2026 controversy after a video appeared to show him vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room during the match against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. The clip surfaced during the second innings and quickly went viral on social media, triggering questions over player conduct and possible disciplinary action.
Viral Dressing Room Clip Puts Riyan Parag Under Scrutiny
The incident reportedly happened in the 16th over of Rajasthan Royals’ chase against Punjab Kings. A broadcast camera briefly showed Parag inside the dressing room with an object that appeared to be a vape.
The moment attracted quick attention online, with fans sharing the clip and asking whether vaping is allowed inside an IPL dressing room. The controversy gained more traction because Parag had just been dismissed after scoring 29 runs off 16 balls.
There is no confirmed public update yet on whether the IPL or BCCI will take action against Parag. However, dressing rooms and dugouts usually fall under strict team and tournament conduct rules, especially around health, safety, and player behaviour.
The incident comes during a difficult season for Parag, who has been leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 after Sanju Samson’s move to Chennai Super Kings. His batting form has also been under pressure, making the viral clip another unwanted talking point around the RR captain.
Rajasthan Royals Win Despite Off Field Distraction
Rajasthan Royals did not let the controversy affect their performance on the field. They successfully chased down Punjab Kings’ 222-run target with six wickets in hand and handed PBKS their first defeat of IPL 2026.
The win was an important result for Rajasthan, especially against a Punjab side that had started the season strongly. It also helped RR keep their campaign moving despite the noise around Parag’s dressing room video.
This is not the first conduct-related issue involving Rajasthan Royals this season. Earlier, RR team manager Romi Bhinder was fined ₹1 lakh and given an official warning after using a mobile phone inside the dugout during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
For now, the focus will remain on whether the tournament authorities issue any statement or action regarding Parag’s viral clip. Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, will hope the matter does not distract the team as the IPL 2026 season moves into a crucial phase.
