IPL Security Concerns Raised Over Unauthorized Presence in Team Areas

New Delhi. The security mechanism has raised questions after the presence of 'unauthorized' individuals was found in the team dugout, bus, hotel, and player and match official area (PMOA) in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

After the IPL's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) expressed concern over this matter, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reminded all franchises to follow the tournament's Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has confirmed that the ACSU has submitted a report to the BCCI in this regard. 'The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit has submitted a report pointing out some irregularities, stating that unauthorized individuals were seen in the dugout, team bus, and the team's hotel during the matches,' Dhumal told PTI. 'There are certain protocols to be followed under PMOA, and the BCCI will instruct the franchises to be mindful of the SOP to maintain the integrity of the tournament.'

Similarly, BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia has also stated that various discrepancies and irregularities have been observed in the ongoing IPL. He mentioned that in some incidents, team owners and officials themselves were seen in restricted areas where players stay.

'This time we have seen various irregularities in the behavior of some franchises and players,' Saikia told ANI on Thursday. 'Since unauthorized individuals were found moving with team members, the BCCI and IPL are preparing an advisory. Some unauthorized individuals were seen reaching hotels and the rooms of players or team officials, which is completely against our anti-corruption protocol.'

Saikia added with a stern warning, 'We have also seen some team owners and officials mingling with players in unauthorized areas. There has been some laxity in following protocols, and we have taken this very seriously. The advisory to be issued now will be strictly enforced, and if violations occur even after this, the BCCI and IPL will take strict action.'