The Rajasthan Cricket Association has stepped in amid growing speculation over Rajasthan Royals possibly shifting their home base for IPL 2026. The RCA has formally approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India. It has requested that Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur remain the franchise’s home venue.
Uncertainty over IPL 2026 venues has increased due to administrative issues within the RCA. The association has been run by a government-appointed ad hoc committee for the last two years. During this period, reports suggested that Rajasthan Royals explored alternative venues. Pune’s MCA International Stadium was among the options. This led to concern among fans and officials in Jaipur. The BCCI is yet to make a final decision.
RCA highlights Sawai Mansingh Stadium stadium’s readiness and legacy for IPL 2026
In a detailed letter to the BCCI and IPL authorities, the ad hoc committee said it is ready to resolve all issues through dialogue. The RCA assured that Sawai Mansingh Stadium will meet all safety, security, and infrastructure requirements for IPL 2026. It said all preparations would strictly follow BCCI guidelines and government regulations.
The association also clarified that it was not informed about any independent assessment of the Jaipur venue. It stressed that inspections of government-owned stadiums must follow proper regulatory procedures. These should involve statutory authorities and not informal evaluations.
The RCA highlighted SMS Stadium’s strong record. It noted that the venue has hosted IPL, domestic, and international matches without major safety issues. It also pointed to ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy matches across Rajasthan. Games in Jaipur have seen large crowds without any problems.
The letter also mentioned Jaipur’s emotional and historical connection with Rajasthan Royals. The RCA said the franchise enjoys strong fan support in the city. Based on this, it urged the BCCI to allot RR’s IPL 2026 home matches to SMS Stadium. It promised full cooperation to ensure smooth conduct of the tournament. The RCA also said it has not received any formal instruction regarding elections.
Meanwhile, Pune remains an alternative option. The Maharashtra Cricket Association confirmed that officials from Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru recently visited the MCA International Stadium in Gahunje. The MCA thanked both teams for the visit.
“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.
