Uncertainty surrounding IPL 2026 venues has increased due to administrative issues within the RCA, which has been headed by a government-appointed ad hoc committee for the past two years. According to reports Rajasthan Royals had explored alternative venues including the MCA International Stadium in Pune, raising concerns in Jaipur. However, the BCCI is yet to make a final call.
In a detailed letter addressed to the BCCI and IPL authorities, the ad hoc committee expressed readiness to resolve all issues through communication and cooperation. The RCA assured both the board and the franchise that the Sawai Mansingh Stadium would fully comply with all safety, security and infrastructure requirements before IPL 2026, while strictly adhering to BCCI protocols and government regulations.
The association also made it clear that it was neither aware nor involved in any independent assessment of the Jaipur site. It stressed that evaluations of government-owned stadiums should follow recognized regulatory procedures and involve legal authorities, and not be conducted in an informal manner.
RR and RCB visit the MCA Stadium in Pune
Notably, the RCA pointed to SMS Stadium’s track record of hosting IPL, domestic and international matches without major security incidents. Moreover, it mentioned the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy matches in Rajasthan, including matches in Jaipur, which have been drawing large crowds without any problems.
The RCA also wrote about the emotional and historical significance of Jaipur as the home of the Royals, noting the support from fans of the franchise in the city. Based on this, it urged the BCCI to allocate RR’s IPL 2026 home matches to the SMS Stadium, while ensuring full cooperation to ensure smooth conduct of the tournaments. In addition, the RCA clarified that it has not received a formal directive regarding elections, but remains prepared to act if instructed to do so.
Meanwhile, Pune has shown 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 the facilities and logistics. The MCA thanked RR and RCB for taking the time to visit the site. The association hopes that IPL matches can return to the city soon.
“Given BCCI’s support to the Maharashtra Cricket Association, we are confident that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will approve the MCA International Stadium as a venue for upcoming matches of any of these teams in the near future. With BCCI’s support, Indian Premier League (IPL) matches could soon be hosted in Pune, with high-profile clashes, world-class players and the exciting IPL spectacle for cricket fans in the city. Maharashtra Cricket Association looks forward to hosting big matches, big players and unforgettable moments,” the statement said.
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