IPL crisis deepens: RCB and RR face uncertainty over home grounds as BCCI sets January 27 deadline
New Delhi/Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu): Before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are facing a major crisis regarding playing at their own home ground. It seems difficult for these two major franchises to organize matches at their traditional home grounds – Bengaluru and Jaipur. According to top sources, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken this matter seriously and has given both the teams a deadline till January 27. The board has asked them to clarify the situation soon regarding which cities they want to organize their home matches.
RCB unhappy with Karnataka government's conditions
RCB's preferred venue has always been Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for its vibrant atmosphere. However, this time, some new and strict regulations from the state government have become a thorn in the franchise's side. According to sources, the government has imposed several conditions, including responsibility for road maintenance outside the stadium, the cost of deploying a fire brigade, and prohibiting DJs from playing. RCB management does not agree to these conditions. The franchise believes the state government is imposing its administrative responsibilities on them, which is unfair. To resolve this impasse, RCB will now negotiate with the state government along with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and only then will it inform the IPL Governing Council of its final decision.
The sword of Damocles hangs over Jaipur as RCA elections are not held
On the other hand, hosting matches in Jaipur is proving to be a difficult task for the Rajasthan Royals. Elections have not been held in the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) for a long time, leading to administrative uncertainty. This has put Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium on the BCCI's radar. Sources say that if the situation doesn't improve, Jaipur could be removed from the IPL venue list due to administrative shortcomings. Consequently, the Rajasthan Royals may have to look for an alternative city or stadium for their home games. All eyes are now on January 27th to see whether the two teams can retain their home grounds or find new venues.