![BCCI gives two options for the opening match [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1769057221848_Royal Challengers Bengaluru.jpg)
BCCI gives two options for the opening match [Source: AFP]
The opening match of IPL 2026 is currently surrounded by uncertainty due to problems related to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
As per Dainik Jagran report, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is already preparing backup plans. If Chinnaswamy Stadium is unable to host matches this season, the IPL 2026 opener could take place either at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai or at Punjab Kings’ home ground in Mullanpur.
BCCI’s alternative venues for IPL 2026 opening match
Usually, the IPL opening ceremony and first match are held at the home ground of the defending champions.
However, due to the current situation, RCB may not get the chance to host the opening game at their home venue. As a result, the BCCI is considering other suitable options.
During a recent IPL Governing Council meeting, two main suggestions were discussed. First, if RCB end up playing their first match at DY Patil Stadium, then the opening ceremony would also be held there.
On the other hand, if that does not happen, the ceremony and opening match could shift to Mullanpur, which is the home ground of defending runners-up Punjab Kings.
Importantly, the BCCI is not keen on hosting the opening ceremony in a non-metro city. Due to this reason, Raipur, though considered as a temporary home venue for RCB, may not host the opening ceremony even if matches are played there.
Why RCB is facing problems at Chinnaswamy
It is important to note that RCB strongly want to continue playing their home matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, new rules set by the Karnataka state government have created major concerns.
According to sources, RCB have been asked to take responsibility not only for the stadium but also for the surrounding areas, including the road outside the venue.
In addition, several other conditions have been imposed. These include restrictions on DJ usage during matches and the mandatory presence of a fire brigade unit near the stadium. RCB believes that these demands shift civic and administrative responsibilities onto the franchise, which they feel should be handled by local authorities instead.
This issue became even more sensitive after a tragic stampede in June last year during a felicitation event for RCB’s first-ever IPL title win. Sadly, the incident led to 11 deaths and several injuries. Following this tragedy, the Chinnaswamy Stadium did not host any matches.
RCB search for backup options
Later, an independent commission led by Justice John Michael D’Cunha declared the stadium unsafe for large gatherings, pointing out serious public safety risks. Although the Karnataka government has now cleared the stadium for cricket after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) submitted a detailed safety plan, doubts still remain.
Notably, RCB are expected to continue discussions with the Karnataka government and the KSCA before making a final decision. Meanwhile, the franchise is exploring backup venues such as Raipur, Pune, and Navi Mumbai to ensure the season runs smoothly.
Rajasthan Royals face similar trouble
At the same time, Rajasthan Royals are also dealing with uncertainty. Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium may lose hosting rights because the Rajasthan Cricket Association failed to conduct elections on time, despite repeated warnings from the BCCI.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal had earlier warned that home games could be shifted if the issue remained unresolved. As a result, Guwahati remains Rajasthan’s backup base for IPL 2026.
