Rajasthan Royals likely to play in Jaipur. [Source - rajasthanroyals.com]IPL 2026 is just around the corner, and teams have already begun building momentum through pre-season camps and planning. The mini auction held in December added fresh excitement, with squads reshaped and strategies adjusted. Since then, several developments have taken centre stage.One of the major talking points has been the uncertainty surrounding Rajasthan Royals’ home venue. For years, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur has been their fortress, hosting season after season of IPL action with passionate local support. However, doubts recently emerged over whether Jaipur would continue as their base. Concerns around stadium readiness created speculation that RR might shift elsewhere for IPL 2026, with Pune even discussed as a possible alternative venue. Now, recent developments suggest Jaipur is once again the frontrunner to host Rajasthan Royals’ home games. While official confirmation is still awaited, signs indicate that the franchise could return to its traditional base for the upcoming season. Rajasthan Royals’ home games set to return to Jaipur for IPL 2026 The Rajasthan government, according to Cricbuzz, has reportedly stepped in, keen to ensure that the state’s own franchise does not move away. Officials are understood to have encouraged efforts to keep Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur for IPL 2026, strengthening the possibility of a home return. The Royals management had earlier raised concerns about the preparedness of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, especially regarding facilities and overall readiness. However, with nearly 45 days left before the tournament begins, improvements are expected to be completed in time. If plans go ahead, Rajasthan Royals are likely to play four of their seven home matches in Jaipur. As per their earlier strategy, the remaining three home fixtures are expected to be staged at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Why has Jaipur been in doubt to host RR’s home matches in IPL 2026? Jaipur’s status as a venue was questioned due to concerns over infrastructure, security arrangements and administrative issues within local cricket management. These factors created uncertainty about whether the stadium would be fully prepared before the start of the season. Because of these doubts, Rajasthan Royals explored alternative options. Pune emerged as a strong backup venue, and discussions were reportedly held regarding the possibility of hosting matches there if Jaipur was not ready in time. The Royals also checked the availability of Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium as another fallback option. However, Mumbai Indians are understood to have indicated that Mumbai would not be a convenient primary alternative, prompting the Royals to continue to see other possibilities. IPL schedule awaited as pressure builds on RRThe BCCI has not yet released the official IPL 2026 schedule, and franchises are waiting for clarity. With the season set to run from late March to the end of May, timelines are tight and decisions regarding venues need to be finalized soon. For Rajasthan Royals, who are also attracting significant bids as they go up for sale, the pressure is mounting to confirm their primary home ground. All signs now point toward backing the Sawai Mansingh Stadium to be ready on time, alongside the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, ensuring stability and continuity for the franchise.
