Rajasthan Royals Seek BCCI Approval for Home Matches in IPL 2026
What should be a reliable home ground for the Rajasthan Royals has turned into a situation filled with uncertainty. The Jaipur-based franchise is currently in limbo regarding the hosting of its home games at Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The team is awaiting crucial clearance from IPL and BCCI officials due to unresolved issues related to safety, infrastructure, and administrative matters at the venue. Despite agreeing in principle to play at SMS Stadium, the Royals have reached out to key officials for clarification on the stadium’s safety measures.
Infrastructure Concerns at SMS Stadium
The Sawai Mansingh Stadium, which underwent renovations in 2006, has not seen any significant upgrades since then. This lack of modernization raises concerns about whether the venue can adequately accommodate the large crowds expected for contemporary IPL matches. Issues related to infrastructure and safety measures, including evacuation protocols and operational readiness, have been flagged by the Royals. The stadium last hosted a T20 International match on November 17, 2021, and it has been over a decade since it welcomed an ODI on October 16, 2013. The Royals have communicated their concerns regarding public safety and structural integrity to the Rajasthan State Cricket Association (RSCA), BCCI, and IPL governing council.
Ongoing Communication with Authorities
Since June of last year, the Rajasthan Royals have consistently raised alarms about public safety at SMS Stadium. They have highlighted critical lapses in various areas, including emergency evacuation and civic work. The franchise has formally communicated these issues to the relevant authorities, emphasizing the need for compliance with existing regulatory codes and standards. The Royals are seeking guidance and approval from the BCCI, particularly given the ongoing defunct status of the RCA. The last time the team was compelled to relocate its home games from Jaipur was during the 2014 and 2015 IPL seasons, a decision driven by governance issues within the RCA.
Governance Issues within the RCA
The governance of the Rajasthan Cricket Association has been in a state of decline, operating without an elected body for nearly two years. Instead, it has relied on a series of ad hoc committees. While the IPL governing council has allowed Jaipur to host matches in the past, it has issued a stern warning: if the RCA fails to conduct elections, Jaipur will lose its IPL fixtures for 2026. Despite this ultimatum, the RCA remains embroiled in internal conflicts, which have stalled the development of a new cricket stadium intended to be the third-largest in the world. The previous administration secured a significant grant from the BCCI in 2023, but construction was halted following leadership changes. The need for a dedicated cricket stadium is crucial, as the multipurpose SMS Stadium is increasingly seen as outdated.
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