BCCI issues official statement on Rajasthan Royals' match-fixing controversy

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have rejected match-fixing claims made by Jaydeep Bihani, the convener of the Rajasthan Cricket Association’s ad-hoc committee. The franchise described the allegations as unfounded and damaging, and added that such remarks tarnish the reputation of the team, the BCCI, and the game.

Rajasthan Royals have had a tough IPL 2025 campaign, securing just two wins from eight games. They suffered a narrow two-run loss to Lucknow Super Giants on April 20 in Jaipur. RCA ad-hoc committee convener Jaideep Bihani alleged the match was fixed and added that “even a child” would call it rigged.

Rajasthan Royals Officially Reject Match-Fixing Allegations

In a letter carrying the subject line "reporting defamatory content," the franchise condemned the accusations as baseless and lacking evidence.

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"The statements made by the convener are without any evidence and serve only to stir unnecessary controversy. They undermine not just the Royals but also Royal Multi Sport Private Limited (RMPL), the Rajasthan Sports Council, the BCCI, and the game of cricket itself,” reads the letter written by the franchise.

BCCI Official Dismisses Match-Fixing Claims, Cites RCA Elections

A senior BCCI official dismissed the match-fixing claims, adding that the allegations might be linked to the upcoming elections of the Rajasthan Cricket Association. The official stated that there has been a lot of drama surrounding the elections, with individuals seeking attention.

"The RCA is currently dissolved. An ad-hoc committee has been formed, and with the elections approaching, there is a lot of drama. Everyone wants attention. The BCCI has an anti-corruption unit working 24/7 to keep bad elements away from the game. There is no truth to these allegations," said the BCCI official on condition of anonymity, as quoted by The Times of India.

Also read: Rajasthan Royals issue official statement on Match-Fixing allegations

Rajasthan Royals Cite Ticket Dispute as Possible Cause Behind Allegations

The Times of India report added that the Rajasthan Royals are upset with the recent comments and believe the controversy may be linked to ticket distribution issues.

The Rajasthan Cricket Association used to receive 1,800 tickets for each home game, but it has recently been reduced to around 1,000-1,200 tickets. The issue of complimentary tickets has also caused disputes in the past, such as the one between the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"At the start of the season, the BCCI gave us a clear guideline that since the RCA is dissolved, we would be dealing with the Rajasthan State Sports Council (RSSC) for all arrangements," said a RR insider.

"The disgruntled member of the RCA ad-hoc committee and his associates are demanding an exorbitant amount of tickets, and we are not entertaining them. This is the sole reason behind all this drama," they added.

Rajasthan Royals have won only two of their eight matches and are sitting at the 8th spot in the standings. They suffered recent defeats to Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants despite being in strong positions. The team will next take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Bengaluru on Thursday, April 24.