RCB Selects Navi Mumbai and Raipur as Home Venues for 2026 IPL Season
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have finalized their home venues for the 2026 Indian Premier League season. The team will play five matches at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and two matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur.
Rajasthan Royals Opt for Pune as Home Base
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals have chosen the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Gahunje, Pune, as their home ground for the upcoming season. This decision marks a significant shift in venue strategy for both franchises.
A reliable source confirmed the arrangements to TOI, stating that RCB officials recently completed negotiations with relevant authorities. The team has secured these venues after multiple meetings with stadium officials, the source revealed.
WPL Matches to Proceed Without Spectators
In related cricket news, the Board of Control for Cricket in India plans to hold Women's Premier League matches on January 14 and 15 behind closed doors at DY Patil Stadium. This precaution stems from security concerns during Navi Mumbai municipal corporation elections scheduled for January 15.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the situation on Monday, confirming that matches would continue as planned. We will make a final decision regarding spectator attendance shortly, Saikia told reporters.
The WPL fixtures will proceed regardless of crowd restrictions. Police authorities have indicated they cannot guarantee adequate security during the election period, prompting this temporary measure.
Venue Strategy Reflects Evolving IPL Landscape
These venue selections demonstrate how IPL franchises are adapting their home ground strategies. RCB's choice of multiple venues suggests a deliberate approach to engaging fans across different regions.
The use of DY Patil Stadium for both IPL and WPL matches highlights its growing importance in Indian cricket. This stadium has previously hosted significant cricket events and continues to be a preferred venue for major tournaments.
Fans can expect exciting cricket action across these venues during the 2026 season. The combination of established stadiums and newer cricket facilities promises diverse experiences for spectators attending matches.
