Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has landed in a fresh wave of scrutiny after he was reported to have been vaping inside the dressing room during the team’s match against Punjab Kings. The incident triggered sharp criticism, and the disciplinary action that followed only intensified the debate around player conduct.
Quick facts
- Riyan Parag was caught vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room during their game versus Punjab Kings.
- He faced criticism for the incident.
- He was fined 25% of his match fee.
- The BCCI also issued a demerit point for bringing the game into disrepute.
Former India spinner R Ashwin took up the issue, delivering a pointed message to Parag on how such matters can be avoided—especially for younger players. Ashwin stressed that while some behaviour may start as a personal decision, it still needs to stay within personal boundaries rather than crossing into spaces where it becomes visible or problematic.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said the whole situation could have been avoided and called out the risk of players getting pulled into similar episodes. He highlighted the sensitivity of the matter and suggested that, looking at everything together, there was no need for it to reach this stage.
In his remarks, Ashwin drew a clear line between private and public space. He argued that even if the choice is personal, it should remain in private; actions conducted in public view can be prevented, and players should be mindful of that distinction.
Continuing in the same vein, the veteran framed his comments as advice from an elder brother. He told Parag that whatever happens in private life is nobody’s business, but warned that as captain and franchise leader, he carries additional responsibility—and that his role can influence many young cricketers and supporters.
Ashwin also underlined the broader lesson of accountability. He said that if incidents like this are not punished, there will be little incentive for others to learn and adjust, making avoidance the better path for everyone involved.
He concluded by expressing sympathy for the “young kid,” while reiterating that such conduct is both avoidable and should be taken seriously. Ashwin added that while the behaviour shouldn’t be swept under the carpet, action is necessary—because without consequences, no one is likely to take the lesson forward.
