IPL 2026: The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are set for a significant home-ground shift in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with Pune’s Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium emerging as their likely base.
If confirmed, the iconic venue will turn pink as the Royals host their home matches away from their traditional fortress in Jaipur. The move signals a notable change for the franchise, driven by infrastructural and administrative challenges rather than on-field considerations.
Why RR Are Moving Away from Jaipur
According to reports, the decision to move home games away from the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur was taken after the venue failed to meet updated evacuation and safety norms mandated for large-scale sporting events. Safety compliance has become a major focus for tournament organisers following recent incidents across Indian sporting venues.
In addition to safety concerns, there have been ongoing disagreements between the Rajasthan Royals management and the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). These issues are believed to have further complicated preparations for hosting IPL matches in Jaipur, making Pune a more viable alternative for the 2026 season.
Pune’s MCA Stadium: A Proven IPL Venue
The MCA Stadium in Pune is no stranger to IPL action. Over the years, it has successfully hosted matches for multiple franchises. The city previously had its own teams—Pune Warriors India and later Rising Pune Supergiants—both of which are now defunct.
Perhaps the most memorable chapter in the stadium’s IPL history came in 2018, when Chennai Super Kings (CSK) used Pune as their temporary home base. That season ended in fairytale fashion, with CSK lifting the IPL trophy. Rajasthan Royals will be hoping that Pune brings them similar luck as they chase a second IPL title.
Known for its balanced pitch, excellent drainage, and modern facilities, the MCA Stadium is widely regarded as one of India’s best cricket venues.
RCB Also Explored Pune Shift
Interestingly, Rajasthan Royals were not the only franchise to consider Pune as a home venue. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had also explored the option of shifting their base following controversy surrounding the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The Bengaluru venue came under scrutiny after a tragic stampede on June 4, during celebrations of RCB’s maiden IPL title, which resulted in 11 fatalities. Following the incident, the stadium was removed from the host list for the recently concluded Women’s World Cup.
However, developments have since moved in a positive direction. With Venkatesh Prasad taking over as president of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), efforts are underway to restore confidence in the venue. As things stand, the Chinnaswamy Stadium is expected to host IPL matches again, ruling out a permanent shift for RCB.
Rajasthan Royals’ Aggressive Mini Auction Strategy
Away from venue changes, Rajasthan Royals made headlines at the IPL 2026 mini auction with some bold moves. The franchise splurged ₹7.2 crore to acquire Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, significantly higher than his base price of ₹2 crore, underlining their intent to strengthen the bowling attack.
RR also added depth to their squad by signing former Mumbai Indians player Vignesh Puthur and Yash Raj Punia, both for ₹30 lakh each.
Big Trade Before the Auction
One of the most surprising developments ahead of the mini auction was RR’s blockbuster trade involving Sanju Samson, who was sent to the Chennai Super Kings. In return, Rajasthan Royals acquired experienced all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, adding balance and leadership to the squad.
The franchise retained a strong Indian core, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Singh, Sandeep Sharma, and Tushar Deshpande. Overseas slots were locked in with Nandre Burger and Shimron Hetmyer.
What This Means for RR in IPL 2026
Playing home matches in Pune will be a new challenge for the Rajasthan Royals, but it also presents an opportunity. A neutral venue could reduce pressure while offering world-class facilities and strong fan support from Maharashtra’s cricket-loving crowd.
As IPL 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on how RR adapt to their new surroundings—and whether Pune can once again prove to be a lucky charm in the league.
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