Rajasthan Royals to change home base after explosive match-winning accusations; clash with RCB

Rajasthan Royals (RR) are considering moving out of Jaipur for the IPL 2026 season due to ongoing issues with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). The franchise has been exploring alternative venues and has identified Pune as a strong candidate for its new base, but the final decision rests with the BCCI.

The franchise’s consideration to move away from Jaipur comes from tensions with the cricket association last season. An RCA official publicly accused the franchise of match-fixing. The Royals dismissed the allegation and sought action against the individual, and that incident has remained a major point of friction.

Rajasthan Royals in Talks With the Maharashtra Cricket Association

According to Cricbuzz, Rajasthan Royals have been in talks with the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) to use the Gahunje Stadium near Pune for the upcoming IPL season.

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A delegation from the franchise recently visited Pune to inspect the venue, assess hotel availability, review transport access, and evaluate overall logistical feasibility.

If the discussions progress smoothly, Pune is likely to host around four of Rajasthan’s home fixtures, with the remaining matches expected to stay in Guwahati.

However, the situation may become complicated as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also considering Pune as an alternative home ground after the Chinnaswamy Stadium was declared unfit for hosting matches. Negotiations with the MCA are underway, but no final decision has been made yet.

RR Assess Gahunje Stadium as MCA Confirms Detailed Venue Inspection

The venue, located beside the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, is being seriously evaluated as part of RR’s relocation discussions. An MCA representative confirmed that RR officials recently inspected the stadium, inquiring about pitch characteristics, seating capacity, and hotel availability.

The Gahunje ground has not hosted an IPL match since 2022, when it served as one of the limited venues during the COVID-adjusted season.

"Yes, they were here to find out details about the capacity of the stadium, the nature of the pitches and hotels in the city. Our president, Mr. Rohit Pawar, is very keen that the IPL returns to the city. He is making all possible efforts," an MCA official told Cricbuzz.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Explore Alternate Venues as Chinnaswamy Remains Unavailable

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also exploring alternate venues. RCB are unable to use the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after the June 4 stampede, prompting their management to search for other options. The Maharashtra Cricket Association, however, has not committed to either franchise.

RCB’s relocation depends on several administrative and logistical factors. Karnataka’s state authorities could even revise their stance on the Chinnaswamy Stadium closer to the IPL, which further complicates the decision.

Meanwhile, RR have already sent a formal request and are prepared to confirm an arrangement immediately. MCA officials describe the situation as a “bird in hand” dilemma. The association remains cautious as it evaluates both options.

"The RCB interest is genuine, but there is no guarantee that they will relocate. Any such move will depend on a host of factors. It's like 'a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush' situation for us," said the MCA official.

Also read: Marco Jansen smashes stunning no-look six off Ravindra Jadeja in Guwahati Test