Rajasthan Cricket Association approaches BCCI amid speculation over RR’s IPL venue shift

Amid speculation that the Rajasthan Royals may relocate their home base for the IPL 2026, the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) has stepped in to protect Jaipur’s long-standing relationship with the team. The state body has formally addressed the Board of Control for Cricket.

India (BCCI), demanding that Sawai Mansingh Stadium remain RR’s chosen home site for the forthcoming season.

The uncertainty surrounding IPL 2026 locations has grown due to administrative concerns inside the RCA, which has been controlled by a government-appointed ad hoc committee for the previous two years. According to sources, the Rajasthan Royals had considered alternative locations, including Pune’s MCA International Stadium, which raised worries in Jaipur. However, the BCCI has yet to make a final decision.

In a thorough letter to the BCCI and IPL authorities, the ad hoc committee expressed its commitment to resolve all issues through discussion and cooperation. The RCA promised both the board and the franchise that Sawai Mansingh Stadium will meet all safety, security, and infrastructural standards for IPL 2026 while carefully adhering to BCCI norms and government laws.

The association further stressed that it was not informed or involved in any independent evaluation of Jaipur’s venue. It emphasised that reviews of government-owned stadiums must adhere to established regulatory procedures and involve statutory authorities, rather than being undertaken informally.

RR, RCB visit MCA stadium in Pune

Notably, the RCA pointed to SMS Stadium’s track record of hosting IPL, domestic, and international matches without major safety incidents. Furthermore, it cited ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy matches across Rajasthan, including fixtures in Jaipur, which have drawn large crowds without issues.

The RCA also wrote about Jaipur’s emotional and historical significance as the Royals’ home, noting the franchise’s fan support in the city. On that basis, it urged the BCCI to allocate RR’s IPL 2026 home matches to SMS Stadium, while assuring complete cooperation to ensure smooth tournament operations. Separately, the RCA clarified that it has not received any formal directive regarding elections but remains prepared to act if instructed.

Meanwhile, Pune has shown its interest as an alternative option to host the games. The Maharashtra Cricket Association confirmed that officials from both Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru recently visited the MCA International Stadium in Gahunje to assess facilities and logistics. The MCA thanked RR and RCB for taking the time to visit the venue. The association is hoping that IPL matches could soon return to the city.