IPL 2026: RCB and RR Given Deadline to Confirm Home Venues. The IPL Governing Council has issued a clear deadline to two franchises. Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals must confirm home venues by January 27. The decision is linked to venue approvals and logistical planning for IPL 2026. The governing council wants clarity before finalising the tournament schedule.
Chinnaswamy Stadium Still RCB’s First Choice
Royal Challengers Bengaluru want to continue playing home games at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The iconic venue has been RCB’s home ground since 2008. It has hosted more than 95 IPL matches across 16 seasons. However, new conditions from the Karnataka state government remain unresolved. These include security arrangements, crowd control norms, and traffic management plans.
Due to uncertainty, RCB had explored hosting a few matches at alternate venues. Raipur and Pune were discussed as backup options. Navi Mumbai also emerged as a short-term alternative. These venues were considered to reduce pressure on Bengaluru authorities. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has asked RCB for final confirmation. Failure to comply may force partial relocation of home fixtures.
RR Likely to Stay in Jaipur but Kept Options Open
Rajasthan Royals are expected to confirm Sawai Mansingh Stadium as their home ground. The Jaipur venue has hosted 57 IPL matches so far. It remains one of the league’s most reliable hosting centres. Earlier, RR had also explored playing select matches outside Jaipur. Raipur was discussed as a neutral venue for a few fixtures.
Pune and Navi Mumbai were also reviewed during early planning stages. These discussions were precautionary and linked to scheduling flexibility.
IPL Governing Council’s Position
The Indian Premier League Governing Council wants confirmed venues before January ends. Broadcast planning and travel logistics depend on early approvals. Teams missing the deadline risk losing preferred home venues. Backup stadiums are already on standby for IPL 2026.
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A final decision is expected soon after January 27. The official IPL 2026 schedule will follow shortly after.