IPL: Rajasthan Royals to relocate from Jaipur amid RCA fallout
What's the story
Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) winners, are considering a possible relocation of their home ground from Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, according to a report by The Times of India. The move comes after a fallout with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), which had accused the Royals of match-fixing. The RCA has since been dissolved.
Controversy details
The RCA fallout
As per reports, the RCA was disgruntled with the complimentary match tickets provided by the Royals, leading to the serious allegations. Notably, RR had been embroiled in a betting scandal that led to a two-year IPL ban in 2016 and 2017. However, after Manoj Badale and Royals Sports Group took over the franchise, things had been going smoothly until this recent controversy.
Official correspondence
RR reach out to higher authorities
In light of the RCA's allegations, RR reached out to the Rajasthan Chief Minister, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, and the Sports Secretary. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) termed the ongoing drama as a result of the upcoming elections. Despite this, RR seem determined to move away from Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Relocation plans
RR likely to move to Guwahati
According to the Times of India, RR are considering ACA Stadium in Guwahati, Assam, as their new home ground. The team has played its first two matches of IPL 2025 season in Guwahati and received a warm reception from fans there. While no official confirmation has been made yet, it is clear that RR are looking for alternatives to Jaipur.