Trouble For RR Ahead Of IPL 2024; Loses Home Ground: Reports

image-lt01g5qaRR will kickstart their campaign against LSG. (X.com)

Prior to the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024), Rajasthan Royals (RR) find themselves in a precarious situation as the Rajasthan State Sports Council (RSSC) has taken possession of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium and the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) office.

The dispute arose when the RCA requested an extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the RSSC, but the latter declined, resulting in the sealing of the Cricket Association office along with the stadium and the academy.

Sports Officer Karan Singh said the initial MoU expired in July last year, and the second one concluded on February 21. 

Despite repeated notices, the process to renew the MoU and clear the outstanding dues of Rs 34 crore was not completed.

"The MoU has expired, and we have sent them numerous notices. Since Rs 34 crore is outstanding, we have taken possession of the academy and the stadium. The necessary steps to renew the MoU were not taken after its expiration,"  Karan explained to ANI.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Cricket Association President Vaibhav Gehlot disclosed that the RCA had requested an extension of the MoU, but their plea was disregarded. Additionally, the monetary dispute between the RCA and the sports council is under legal scrutiny.

"We requested an extension of the MoU, but it was denied. Two days ago, we received notice that the sports council would seize the academy and the stadium. The monetary dispute is currently sub judice,"  Vaibhav informed ANI.

Amidst the administrative conflict, Rajasthan Royals face uncertainty regarding their home ground. 

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium, scheduled to host Rajasthan Royals' inaugural IPL 2024 match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on March 24, is now inaccessible. 

This development has placed the franchise in a challenging position, prompting potential intervention from RR owners and BCCI officials.

If they are unable to utilise their Jaipur home ground, Rajasthan Royals may consider adopting alternative venues, similar to their approach in 2023 when they played some home matches in Guwahati. Alternative options for RR include venues like Nagpur, Raipur, Vizag, or even Indore.