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

Published - 05 Jan 2026, 09:16 IST | Updated - 05 Jan 2026, 09:43 IST

Amid all the speculation over Rajasthan Royals potentially shifting their home base for IPL 2026, the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) has come forward to safeguard Jaipur’s long-standing association with the franchise. The state body has formally approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), requesting that Sawai Mansingh Stadium continue as RR’s designated home venue for the upcoming season.

The uncertainty around IPL 2026 venues has increased due to administrative issues within the RCA, which has been run by a government-appointed ad hoc committee for the past two years. According to reports, Rajasthan Royals had explored alternative venues, including Pune’s MCA International Stadium, which triggered concerns in Jaipur. However, the BCCI is yet to take a final call.

In a detailed letter addressed to the BCCI and IPL authorities, the ad hoc committee stated its willingness to resolve all concerns through communication and cooperation. The RCA assured both the board and the franchise that Sawai Mansingh Stadium would fully meet all safety, security, and infrastructure requirements ahead of IPL 2026, strictly adhering to BCCI protocols and government regulations.

The association also clarified that it was neither informed nor involved in any independent assessment of Jaipur’s venue. It stressed that evaluations of government-owned stadiums must follow recognised regulatory procedures and involve statutory authorities, rather than being conducted informally.

Pune’s MCA Stadium in contention to host IPL 2026 games

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.

“Considering BCCI’s support for the Maharashtra Cricket Association, we are sure that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will approve the MCA International Stadium as a venue for upcoming fixtures of one of these teams in the near future. With BCCI’s support, Indian Premier League (IPL) matches can soon be hosted in Pune, bringing high-profile clashes, world-class players, and the electrifying IPL spectacle to cricket fans in the city. Maharashtra Cricket Association looks forward to welcoming big matches, big players, and unforgettable moments very soon," the statement read.