Rajasthan Royals Explore Pune Shift Ahead Of IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals are reportedly exploring a potential shift to Pune for the upcoming IPL 2026 season, signaling a significant move for the franchise. The team’s management has begun preliminary discussions with the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) to assess the feasibility of hosting home games at the MCA Stadium in Gahunje. While no final decision has been made, sources suggest that RR’s search for a new base could see a portion of their home matches played outside Rajasthan next season.

Why Rajasthan Royals Are Considering Relocation

The Royals’ possible move is rooted in ongoing issues with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). Tensions escalated last season when an RCA official accused the franchise of match-fixing — allegations that the Royals strongly denied. The team demanded strict action against the individual, further straining relations. Exploring Pune as a home base offers a fresh start and logistical advantages while ensuring uninterrupted preparation for IPL 2026.

Preliminary Assessments In Pune

An operations team from Rajasthan Royals recently visited Pune to evaluate stadium facilities, hotel options, airport connectivity, and other logistical aspects. The MCA Stadium, located along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, has not hosted IPL matches for the past three seasons. The last game at this venue was in 2022 during a season limited to three host cities.

An MCA official confirmed, “Yes, they were here to find out details about the capacity of the stadium, the nature of the pitches and hotels in the city. Our president, Mr. Rohit Pawar, is very keen that the IPL returns to Pune. He is making all possible efforts.”

Proposed Home Games Split

If the Gahunje stadium is finalized, Rajasthan Royals are expected to play at least four of their home matches in Pune. The remaining three home fixtures could be staged in Guwahati, allowing the team to maintain regional fan engagement while adjusting to logistical and contractual requirements.

Strategic Importance Of Pune

The choice of Pune as a potential home base is strategic. The city’s proximity to Mumbai, modern stadium facilities, and adequate hotel infrastructure make it a viable alternative. Additionally, the move could expand RR’s fan base in western India and provide a neutral ground to mitigate ongoing disputes with the RCA.

MCA’s Dilemma Between RR And RCB

The Royals’ proposal coincides with reported approaches from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to host their home games elsewhere. Following the June 4 stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Karnataka State Government has been reluctant to allow RCB to use the venue. While RCB’s interest is genuine, MCA officials note that relocation will depend on multiple factors, including government permissions, logistics, and scheduling.

An MCA official said, “The RCB interest is genuine, but there is no guarantee that they will relocate. Any such move will depend on a host of factors.” At present, the MCA appears inclined to prioritize the RR proposal but has not finalized the decision, indicating that negotiations remain ongoing.

Timing And Approvals

Rajasthan Royals have already sent an email seeking MCA approval, signaling their readiness to lock in the arrangement. Meanwhile, RCB is expected to seek time until the IPL auction next month before confirming any alternative home base. The situation has been likened to “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” emphasizing MCA’s cautious approach in balancing competing requests.

BCCI Will Have Final Say

Even if MCA agrees to host RR, the final approval rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The board’s decision will take into account stadium readiness, player safety, logistical feasibility, and overall league scheduling. Officials are closely monitoring developments, as the IPL 2026 auction approaches and teams finalize their squad plans.

Implications For Rajasthan Royals

Relocating to Pune would mark a significant change for the Royals, who have traditionally played in Rajasthan. The move could help stabilize home match operations, ensure fan engagement in multiple cities, and provide logistical advantages, including travel time reduction and high-quality facilities for training and matches.

Possible Challenges Ahead

While Pune offers a promising alternative, the Royals and MCA face several hurdles. Coordination with hotels, traffic management, fan accommodation, and ticketing logistics will be crucial. Additionally, the Royals must ensure that a dual-home arrangement with Guwahati does not disrupt team preparation and performance during the season.

Fans And Stakeholders Await Decision

Cricket enthusiasts and franchise stakeholders are closely watching the developments. A move to Pune could revitalize interest in the city, which has not hosted IPL games for three years. The Royals’ management is keen to ensure that fans receive timely updates while maintaining confidentiality until all approvals are finalized.

Looking Ahead To IPL 2026

As Rajasthan Royals weigh options and MCA considers feasibility, the franchise aims to finalize a solution that balances operational efficiency, fan engagement, and player readiness. With IPL 2026 on the horizon, decisions made in the coming weeks will set the tone for pre-season preparations and the overall success of the Royals’ campaign.

Key Takeaways

Explore more