After the ICC came down heavy on Pakistan players from wearing Apple smartwatches during the field of play at Lord’s, the BCCI has also restrained the use of smartwatches during IPL matches, a report in Mirror suggests.

The report further suggests that the BCCI had issued a list of do's and don'ts during IPL encounters, which included not wearing a smartwatch as one of the provisions.

According to International Cricket Council’s playing laws, wearing a smartwatch is not strictly prohibited. However, the players must disable the device to fulfill the anti-corruption measures.

“Communication devices are prohibited within the PMOA [player and match official area], barring specific exceptions. Without exception, no player shall be in possession of, or use a communication device (such as a mobile phone or a device which is connected to the internet), while in the PMOA,” the ICC regulations state.

Explaining the reason as to why Pakistan players were barred from wearing Apple watches, an ICC spokesperson on Thursday (May 24) told ESPNcricinfo: “Apple watches in any way connected to a phone/WiFi or in any way capable of receiving comms such as messages, are not allowed. In effect, it is considered a phone unless ‘disabled’ and just a watch.”

Following the spot-fixing scandal in IPL 2013, the role of Anti-Corruption Unit has increased by many folds. No member, other than players, coaches and match officials, is permitted to enter in the dressing room of any team during a match. The BCCI takes a special care about the anti-corruption unit and a 24-hour helpline number is always open for the players to report in case they are approached by anyone for fixing or any other illegal activity with regards to the game.