Rajasthan Royals have sought an indemnity waiver from the state government to host their IPL 2026 matches in Jaipur as the tussle between the state association and the franchise continues. The demand comes after an independed audit firm’s report and the BCCI flagged concerns over the condition of the venue and its readiness to host games. RR have been on the lookout for a new home and are yet to find a solution.
RR reason behind delay in IPL 2026 schedule
As per news agency PTI, the BCCI is delaying the finalizing and announcement of the IPL 2026 schedule due to the uncertainty sorrounding the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The report states that the Rajasthan State Sports Council (RSSC) has rejected most of the safety concerns flagged by Tata Projects in their 700-page audit of the venue. The report adds that in the aftermath of the Bengaluru stampede, no team wants to comprise on fan safety at venues. In that line, RR has sought an indemnity waiver from the RSSC.
The RSSC held a ten-day assessment of the venue following the submission of the 700-page report and has dismissed most of RR’s concerns. It claimed that barring minor repair works, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium was completely ready to host IPL 2026 games.
What does the BCCI say?
A BCCI source has claimed that the Sawai Mansingh Stadium significantly lags behind other IPL venues in terms of modern facilities and fan experience. he source claimed that the RSSC had been warned last year against direct liasoning with the state governemen or local authorities, adding that a special permission was granted only for IPL 2024 and 2025 in the absence of a functioning Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) which is being run by an ad-hoc body.
“Unfortunately SMS stadium significantly lags behind other IPL venues on modern facilities and overall fan experience. Safety and security protocols, fan experience and overall comfort of people, family coming to watch matches at SMS stadium, are paramount to IPL and are non-negotiable,” the BCCI source said.
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