The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence on March 28, 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the schedule for the first phase of the tournament, covering 20 matches. Notably, the Sawai Mansingh (SMS) Stadium in Jaipur has been excluded from this initial list. Cricket enthusiasts in Rajasthan, who were expecting home matches for the Rajasthan Royals (RR), will have to wait as the team is scheduled to play its home fixtures at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati instead.
Rajasthan Royals Initial Match Schedule
According to the released schedule, Rajasthan Royals will begin their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30 in Guwahati. Their second match is scheduled for April 4 against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. The team will then return to Guwahati for two consecutive matches: against Mumbai Indians on April 7 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10. The current schedule covers matches from March 28 to April 12, leaving the venue for the subsequent phase of the tournament yet to be finalized by the BCCI.
Safety Concerns and Infrastructure Reports
The primary reason behind the exclusion of Jaipur as a venue is the reported poor condition of the SMS Stadium. Rajasthan Royals management recently conducted a comprehensive survey of the facility, resulting in a 700-page report. This document highlighted significant deficiencies in safety standards and infrastructure. Based on these findings, the franchise management expressed concerns regarding spectator safety and operational efficiency, leading to the decision to shift the initial home games to an alternative venue.
Government Intervention and Assurance
In response to the exclusion, the Rajasthan state government has initiated communication with the BCCI, while chief Secretary C. Srinivas and Sports Secretary Neeraj K. Pawan have reportedly written to the cricket board, assuring them that the state will take full responsibility for meeting the required safety standards. The government has committed to undertaking necessary repair and renovation work at the stadium. Efforts are being made by the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) and state officials to ensure that the stadium is ready for the second phase of the IPL 2026 season.
Guwahati as a Secondary Home Venue
Due to the uncertainties surrounding the SMS Stadium, Guwahati has emerged as the primary home venue for Rajasthan Royals for the early part of the season. The franchise has utilized the Barsapara Stadium in previous seasons to expand its fan base in Northeast India. BCCI officials stated that venue selection is strictly based on safety audits and logistical feasibility. The absence of Jaipur from the initial schedule has impacted local stakeholders, including the hospitality and tourism sectors, which typically see a surge during IPL match days.
Renovation Plans and Future Inspections
The Sports Department has outlined a plan to address the structural issues identified in the survey report. The renovation will focus on strengthening the spectator stands, upgrading the floodlighting system, and modernizing the player dressing rooms, while a technical team from the BCCI is expected to conduct a follow-up inspection once the primary repairs are completed. The possibility of Jaipur hosting matches in the latter half of April depends entirely on the stadium meeting the stringent safety and infrastructure protocols mandated by the league.