The Indian Premier League (IPL) implemented a fresh rule stating that IPL commentators are prohibited from sharing images or videos while commentating within the stadium premises.
This rule has been introduced following an incident where a commentator shared a picture of himself while commentating on social media.
Later, a BCCI staff member intervened, instructing the commentator to remove the post and advising all commentators against posting pictures during matches.
However, the commentator adamantly declined to comply. It was only after persistent requests that the former player, who has nearly 1 million followers, eventually removed the post.
“The broadcasters have paid big money for IPL rights. So commentators cannot post videos or photographs on match day on social media. There have been instances where commentators have done an ‘Instagram Live’ or posted a photo from the ground,” a BCCI official said to Indian Express.
“One video got one million views. Even IPL teams can’t post videos of live games. They can post a limited number of photographs and can give live match updates on their social media platforms. If found guilty, a franchise will be fined,” he added.
“Even players have been told to be mindful of social media posts on match days. All posts by players are being monitored. They had been informed of the rules but we found that some of them have not followed it.”
Viacom18 holds the digital rights for live matches, while Star India holds the television rights.