IPL 2026: RCB Likely to Split Home Matches Between Navi Mumbai and Raipur. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are likely to play their home matches away from Bengaluru in IPL 2026. The franchise is expected to follow a split-venue model for the upcoming season.
According to the latest reports, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will host home games in Navi Mumbai and Raipur. RCB are set to play five home matches in Navi Mumbai. They will play two home matches in Raipur. The decision comes amid venues planning and logistical considerations. RCB have seven home matches in a standard IPL league season. All seven matches will now be played outside Bengaluru.
Navi Mumbai to Be RCB’s Main Home Base
RCB are likely to use DY Patil Stadium as its primary home venue. The stadium will host five RCB home matches. DY Patil Stadium has hosted IPL matches in multiple previous seasons. The venue last hosted IPL games during the bio-bubble seasons. It is known for flat pitches and high-scoring matches. Teams batting first often score above 170 at this ground. Fast bowlers get early bounce at DY Patil Stadium. Spinners usually come into play during the middle overs. The ground also offers excellent outfield conditions.
Raipur to Host Two RCB Home Matches
RCB will play two home matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium. The Raipur venue has earlier hosted IPL and international matches. It is one of central India’s key cricket stadiums. The pitch in Raipur generally supports batters early. Bowlers get help as the match progresses. Average first-innings IPL scores here range from 160 to 170.
Also Read: WPL 2026: Teams, Squads, Schedule, Venues, Results and Player of the Match
Impact on RCB and IPL 2026
RCB fans in Bengaluru may miss home matches this season. However, fans in Navi Mumbai and Raipur will get a rare opportunity. RCB will need quick adaptation to two different home conditions. With five matches in Navi Mumbai, consistency will be crucial. The two Raipur matches could play a key role in playoff qualification. Official confirmation is expected with the IPL 2026 schedule release.