IPL introduces stricter measures against use of smart glasses during live matches

The IPL’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has issued a fresh advisory to players and support staff regarding the use of smart glasses, sunglasses and similar wearables equipped with communication and recording technology inside restricted areas on match days. Several companies are actively marketing and selling smart eyewear items to IPL players and team members, according to information provided by the ACSU to the BCCI.

According to reports, these smart devices were flagged by the ACSU due to their capability of live-streaming, sending text messages, and making audio and video calls through mobile data or Wi-Fi networks. This raised concerns over potential misuse through the potential for external communication.

The ACSU has reaffirmed that it is totally prohibited to use or possess smart glasses or other wearable technology within the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA). Before entering restricted areas on match days, players and support personnel have been told to leave such devices, along with their cell phones and smart watches, with security officers. This directive comes amid season-wide vigilance measures introduced by ACSU during the current season.

“With wearable technology becoming more sophisticated and concerns growing over covert communication methods, the ACSU’s latest crackdown underlines the league’s attempt to stay ahead of evolving integrity risks during one of world cricket’s most commercially significant tournaments,” sources told the Indian Express.

As earlier reported, the ACSU had raised concerns regarding unauthorised individuals attempting to loiter near dugouts and hospitality areas in order to initiate informal contact with players and support staff. 

Non-playing team members such as net bowlers, logistics staff, throwdown specialists and other temporary personnel were advised to ensure that they remained within approved access protocols and did not carry unauthorised communication devices into the PMOA and other sensitive areas. The ACSU also recently emphasised the possession and use of vapes and other smoking-related incidents in restricted areas after Rajasthan Royals’ skipper Riyan Parag was spotted smoking a vape in the dressing room during a game. 

It was further reported that teams have been instructed to avoid needless movement around public entry points and hotel perimeters, which are deemed vulnerable from the standpoint of anti-corruption surveillance. Informal meeting places, such as hotel lobbies, cafes, smoking areas, and post-match hospitality areas, have long been seen by the ACSU as possible entry gates for bookies and unlicensed agents.