Riyan Parag under Fire after viral vaping clip as RR hand PBKS first IPL 2026 defeat

Punjab Kings continued their explosive batting form after being put in to bat first at the PCA Stadium in Mullanpur. Opener Prabhsimran Singh anchored the innings with a composed 59 off 44 balls, while Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis unleashed a brutal late assault, smashing 62 off just 22 deliveries. Their combined effort powered PBKS to a massive 222/4 in 20 overs, a total that looked enough to preserve their unbeaten streak in IPL 2026.

However, Rajasthan Royals produced one of the finest run chases of the season, chasing down the target in style and becoming the first team to defeat Punjab this year.

Viral dressing room clip sparks debate

Even as RR celebrated a memorable victory, social media exploded after television cameras appeared to capture Riyan Parag allegedly vaping inside the team dressing room during the match.

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The clip quickly went viral online, triggering sharp reactions from fans and cricket followers. Many questioned whether the act violated IPL and Indian regulations surrounding e-cigarettes and vaping products. India banned electronic cigarettes under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, while IPL venues also maintain strict conduct policies for players and support staff.

Cricket overshadowed

The incident has now placed RR captain Parag under intense scrutiny despite his team delivering one of the standout performances of the tournament so far.

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With no official statement yet from either the franchise or the BCCI, discussions continue to grow around whether disciplinary action could follow in the coming days. For the Rajasthan Royals, what should have been remembered as a statement victory over the table toppers has now turned into a talking point dominated by controversy off the field.