Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals is likely to relocate to another state ahead of the 19th edition of the tournament. The inagural IPL winners reportedly began exploring options for a new base.
Cricbuzz reported that the Rajasthan-based franchise are looking for MCA Stadium in Gahunje, Pune as their home ground for the upcoming IPL season, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have the final say. The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) must first confirm its readiness to host the franchise. Both RR and MCA have had Preliminary discussions
The report further stated the RR's operations team was recently in Pune to assess the stadium, hotel options, airport connectivity and other logistical aspects.
Why is RR shifting their venue ahead of IPL 2026?
Rajasthan Royals are looking to change their venue for IPL 2026 because of apparent issues with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). The situation escalated last season when an RCA official accused the team of match-fixing, which was denied by the Rajasthan-based franchise, demanding strict action against the individual.
Which will be RR's home ground for IPL 2026?
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) home ground will reportedly be Gahunje stadium, located close to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. be finalised, RR will play at least four home games in the city, with the remaining three expected to be staged in Guwahati.
"Yes, they were here to find out details about the capacity of the stadium, the nature of the pitches and hotels in the city," an MCA official told this website, adding, "Our president, Mr. Rohit Pawar, is very keen that the IPL returns to the city. He is making all possible efforts" as quoted by Cricbuzz
MCA's last IPL outing
The MCA Stadium has not hosted a single game in the last three editions of the tournament. The venue hosted last IPL clash in 2022 when the cash-rich league was played in only three venues across Mumbai and Pune, apart from the Playoffs, held in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.