Rajasthan Royals’ long-term future at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium has come under renewed scrutiny as the franchise accelerates plans to relocate part of its home schedule, according to a report by Cricbuzz. The move, driven by administrative friction in Jaipur and logistical uncertainty, has brought Pune’s MCA Stadium in Gahunje into sharp focus as a leading contender for the IPL 2026 season.
Royals assess Pune amid strained ties with RCA
The push for relocation began after RR’s relationship with the Rajasthan Cricket Association deteriorated significantly last season. Tensions escalated when an RCA official accused the franchise of match-fixing following a poor run of results — an allegation the Royals strongly rejected while seeking disciplinary action. Issues over complimentary passes and other operational disagreements added to the strain, prompting the franchise to explore alternate venues more seriously.
To evaluate its options, RR dispatched its operations team to Pune, where they inspected stadium facilities, practice pitches, hotel availability and broader connectivity. Their visit was confirmed by the Maharashtra Cricket Association, which acknowledged the depth of the franchise’s interest. “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 Cricbuzz. The official added that “Our president, Mr. Rohit Pawar, is very keen that the IPL returns to the city. He is making all possible efforts.”
If finalised, RR would host at least four matches at the MCA Stadium, with the remaining fixtures likely to be staged in Guwahati, where they have previously held part of their home schedule.
MCA weighs RR proposal as RCB explores contingency plans
The Rajasthan Royals’ proactive approach comes at a time when Royal Challengers Bengaluru have also been compelled to consider shifting venues. After the tragic stampede during RCB’s 2025 victory parade, which resulted in significant safety concerns at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the facility has been deemed unfit for major events unless the Karnataka government changes its stance.
This parallel interest places the MCA in a delicate position, as it must balance certainty against potential gains. While confirming RCB’s enquiry, the MCA official noted the lack of clarity surrounding their final decision. “The RCB interest is genuine, but there is no guarantee that they will relocate. Any such move will depend on a host of factors,” the official told Cricbuzz.
Given that RR has already submitted a formal request and is prepared to move swiftly, the MCA faces competing considerations. As the official summarized, “It’s like ‘a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush’ situation for us.”
Pune’s readiness could shape IPL 2026 landscape
The MCA Stadium has not hosted an IPL match since 2022, and the opportunity to rejoin the league’s venue roster is likely to influence the association’s final decision. With RR eager to lock in arrangements well before the 2026 season and RCB yet to commit, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Pune becomes a multi-franchise fallback venue — or the new home for the Rajasthan Royals.
As negotiations continue, both logistical feasibility and administrative goodwill will shape the outcome, leaving Pune at the centre of one of the IPL’s most significant venue discussions in recent years.
