Rajasthan Royals Confirm IPL 2026 Matches at Upgraded Jaipur Stadium
In a significant development for cricket fans in the Pink City, the Rajasthan Royals have officially agreed to host four of their home matches for the IPL 2026 season at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. This decision marks a pivotal shift after years of uncertainty, with the team previously playing five out of seven home matches here until last year.
Government Swiftly Initiates Stadium Upgrades Post-Deadlock
Ever since the deadlock over hosting the Rajasthan Royals' IPL matches ended a few days ago, government authorities have swung into action, launching a flurry of activities at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The landmark agreement was reached following a high-level meeting between RR chairperson Ranjit Barthakur and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, effectively resolving long-standing issues related to stadium safety and administrative hurdles.
To ensure the venue meets international standards, Rajasthan Chief Secretary V Srinivas, accompanied by a team of officials, conducted a thorough inspection of the SMS Stadium on Monday afternoon. Srinivas meticulously examined the ongoing repair work, walking the entire stretch of the ground and stands while enquiring about every minute detail of the progress.
Comprehensive Safety Audits and Structural Assessments
Addressing the Royals' specific concerns over stadium safety and infrastructure, the state government had commissioned a formal structural audit from the Public Works Department. This move came after RR conducted an independent audit through Tata Projects, which highlighted severe deficiencies in fire safety and structural integrity. Despite both audits, PWD is now conducting additional structural assessments at nine different spots within the stadium to guarantee absolute safety for hosting high-profile IPL games.
During the inspection, PWD officials briefed Chief Secretary Srinivas on the ongoing load-bearing testing of the stands and their current progress. The inspection team included Rajasthan State Sports Council chairman Neeraj K Pawan, RR vice president Rajeev Khanna, and various PWD officials, with groundsmen and laborers actively involved in the upgrade work.
Strategic Planning for IPL Readiness
After a half-hour inspection, Srinivas held a lengthy closed-door meeting with representatives from RR, RSSC, and PWD to discuss various aspects of preparing the stadium for the big event. According to sources, Srinivas instructed concerned officials to oversee the work minutely and provide daily updates on the activities being carried out within the premises.
This proactive approach underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the Sawai Mansingh Stadium is fully equipped and safe for the upcoming IPL season, promising an enhanced experience for players and spectators alike.
