Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals face off in a crucial IPL 2026 encounter on May 1 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Both sides approach the fixture with very different levels of momentum. While Rajasthan are full of confidence after a thrilling chase against Punjab Kings Delhi are looking to find consistency in this season's campaign.

 

Captained by Riyan Parag, the Royals have shown good form by successfully chasing a target of 223 against Punjab Kings. On the other hand Axar Patel led Delhi have had an inconsistent run getting bundled out for just 75 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru despite scoring 264/2 against Mumbai Indians just in their last fixture and still ended up losing the encounter.

 

The spotlight however, will be not only on form but also on Parag's recent transgression.

 

Riyan Parag vaping case and BCCI action

 

The problem escalated when Riyan Parag was seen vaping in the dressing room during the live broadcast in Rajasthan's match against Punjab Kings. The video spread like wildfire online and has raised a number of questions over the team's conduct.

 

For players dressing rooms and stadiums cannot have smoking or vaping except in certain specified areas. The incident has quickly come to the notice of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and necessary actions have been taken.

 

On Thursday, the Board officially took the decision of slapping a penalty on Parag. He was fined 25% of his match fee and also received one demerit point. According to the official IPL statement he admitted of breaching a Level 1 offense under the Code of Conduct of players which was then accepted by the player under the supervision of match referee Amit Sharma.

 

BCCI's official stated :

 

"The BCCI is also exploring other options to initiate proceedings for stringent action against the erring team, its officials and players to ensure that the reputation of IPL remains intact," 

 

The Indian cricket board has also sent a clear warning that any repeat offense will result in far more severe penalties possibly including an outright suspension.

 

Also Read | Sri Lanka U19 Players Released on Bail After Allegations of Filming Teammates in Hotel

 

Will Riyan Parag play vs Delhi Capitals?

 

At the moment, despite the controversy there is no ban on Riyan Parag. Therefore he is eligible for selection and is expected to lead Rajasthan Royals for the game against Delhi Capitals.

 

On the cricketing front however the young batter has not had a good run this season. He has aggregated approximately 13-14 runs per inning over nine matches his highest score being 29. His captaincy has been commendable but batting has not been able to impress the team enough.

 

Royals would look to continue their winning run and for Delhi Capitals, this is an important fixture to keep their playoff hopes alive. Eyes on Parag would be on him to see how he fares with bat and ball and his reactions post the controversy.