Ahead of game vs GT, RR head coach opens up on Jaipur floodlight controversy after repeated catch drops

From the past few weeks, Rajasthan Royals' (RR) home ground, Sawai Mansingh Stadium have faced harsh criticism for their newly upgraded floodlights which caused some uncharacteristic catch drops on the field.

Kumar Sangakkara opens on floodlight issue

The problem triggered widespread debate, with several players and experts suggesting that the stadium's newly upgraded floodlights could be the key reason behind the catch drops.

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The new floodlights were installed just before the start of the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Although the new lights provide greater brightness and improved visibility overall, players have experienced some struggles to adapt to the intense glare and changed lighting conditions.

However, RR head coach Kumar Sangakkara reacted on the issue saying that the new lights are different as they are LEDs and players are trying to adjust with it, as it gives brighter and large amount of visibility.

"I think they have done a great job with redoing the floodlights. They’re LED lights, and then you know, they're quite different to what we are used to in other grounds. They are much brighter and give a larger amount of visibility. So we have been trying to see what the right adjustment is so that the fielders are comfortable and they don’t lose the ball in the glare of the lights," said Sangakkara.

Further speaking on the issue, Sangakkara revealed that they have talked about it with the ground authorities to navigate a proper solution.

“So we’ve spoken to the ground authorities and they have tried to lower or extend or change the direction of the lights. And in the second game, I think it was fine. It’s never easy when the lights are in a glare, but I think they have done a great job with the ability to adjust that as well, so it’s great for modern technology to have such good lighting,” added Sangakkara.

Rajasthan Royals' next challenge

The Riyan Parag-led side will lock horns with Shubman Gill's Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday, May 9 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. RR are entering the game after losing Delhi Capitals in their last clash.