IPL 2026: RCB, RR search for alternate home venues as BCCI gives January 27 deadline

Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals are in the process of identifying alternate home venues for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season after facing significant hurdles at their traditional bases in Bengaluru and Jaipur.

As per a Times Now report, the BCCI has asked both franchises to inform the board of their preferred home venues by January 27. The deadline is aimed at allowing the IPL organisers sufficient time to finalise scheduling, logistics and venue-related clearances ahead of the new season.

Why RCB and RR are facing a venue crisis?

RCBs situation stems from a government-imposed restriction on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Karnataka government prohibited the iconic venue from hosting sporting events following a tragic stampede incident last year following RCB's title win as it claimed 11 lives and left many severely injured. The decision has effectively ruled out Bengaluru as RCB’s home base for IPL 2026 unless the ban is lifted or revised in the coming months.

Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, have lost access to their traditional venue, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, due to administrative lapses within the Rajasthan Cricket Association. The association failed to conduct its elections within the stipulated timeline despite repeated warnings from the BCCI. As a result, the board withdrew hosting rights from the Jaipur venue, leaving the Royals without a confirmed home ground for the upcoming season.

Both franchises are now evaluating alternative venues that can meet the IPL’s operational, commercial and broadcast requirements. While no official announcements have been made regarding shortlisted locations, clarity is expected once RCB and RR submit their venue preferences to the BCCI before the stipulated deadline.