The suspense is increasing at the home venue of Rajasthan Royals regarding the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) has formally approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) demanding that Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium remain the home ground of Rajasthan Royals. This step has been taken after reports emerged that the franchise is considering hosting some of its home matches in Pune.
RCA’s letter to BCCI
A detailed letter has been sent to the BCCI and IPL officials by the RCA under the leadership of DD Kumawat, chairman of the adhoc committee appointed by the state government. It said that the association wants to resolve this entire matter through negotiations with all concerned parties. RCA assured that it is ready to resolve every issue with transparency and cooperation.
Security and infrastructure trust
RCA has also assured BCCI and Rajasthan Royals that all the standards related to security, structure and infrastructure will be fully met at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium before IPL 2026. The association clearly said that the preparations will be as per BCCI protocols, government rules and international standards, so that there is no compromise on the safety of spectators and players.
Objection to Pune reports
Responding to reports of hosting the match in Pune, RCA said it was not informed about any evaluation of the Jaipur stadium, nor was it part of any independent inspection process. RCA says that assessment of government-owned stadiums should be done only in accordance with the prescribed regulatory process and relevant government agencies.
Defense of Sawai Mansingh Stadium
RCA strongly defended the condition of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, saying the ground was structurally safe and operationally sound. The association reminded that IPL, domestic and international matches have been held in this stadium for years without any major security issues.
Example of Vijay Hazare Trophy
To strengthen its case, RCA cited the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy in Rajasthan, in which there were no incidents despite the presence of large number of spectators at many places including Jaipur. This, according to RCA, proves that Jaipur is fully prepared to host the big tournament.
Relationship between Jaipur and Royals
The letter also said that Jaipur has been the traditional home ground of Rajasthan Royals for a long time and the fans here have always given tremendous support to the team. On this basis, RCA has requested BCCI that the home matches of Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 should be allotted to Jaipur only.
