The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has confirmed that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are exploring the possibility of shifting their home base to Pune. Officials from both franchises recently visited the MCA International Stadium to hold discussions ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
There were reports that RR and RCB had visited the MCA International Stadium in Pune while exploring a new base. However, the Rajasthan Royals are more likely to use Pune for their home matches in IPL 2026. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are expected to continue hosting games at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals Visited the MCA International Stadium in Pune
The Maharashtra Cricket Association confirmed that officials from Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals recently visited the MCA International Stadium in Pune. In a social media post, the association thanked both franchises for their interest.
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“We extend our sincere thanks to Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals for visiting MCA International Stadium, Gahunje, Pune a couple of weeks back. Their presence marks a significant step in showcasing the MCA International Stadium, Pune, as a premier destination for top-tier cricketing events.”
We thank Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals for visiting MCA International Stadium, Gahunje, Pune, a few weeks ago. Their visit highlights the stadium’s readiness to host top-tier cricket.
With BCCI’s continued support to the Maharashtra Cricket Association, we are… pic.twitter.com/v2lhve5uyT
— Maharashtra Cricket Association (@MahaCricket) January 4, 2026
BCCI Will Approve the MCA International Stadium as a Venue – The Association
The association stated that the Board of Control for Cricket in India will make the final decision on the MCA International Stadium as a future home venue for an IPL team. MCA said that it is eager to welcome major fixtures and create memorable moments for cricket fans.
“Considering BCCI’s support for the Maharashtra Cricket Association, we are sure that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will approve the MCA International Stadium as a venue for upcoming fixtures of one of these teams in the near future. With BCCI’s support, Indian Premier League (IPL) matches can soon be hosted in Pune—bringing high-profile clashes, world-class players, and the electrifying IPL spectacle to cricket fans in the city.”
“Maharashtra Cricket Association looks forward to welcoming big matches, big players, and unforgettable moments very soon.”
Rajasthan Royals and RCB Explore Alternate Home Venues Ahead of IPL Season
Rajasthan Royals want to move away from the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The franchise has also faced ongoing issues with the Rajasthan Cricket Association, which has pushed them to look for another base.
The situation between RR and the RCA worsened during IPL 2025 after an RCA official made match-fixing allegations against the franchise. RR denied the claims and demanded action. With the RCA now run by an ad-hoc committee, the lack of stability has further influenced RR’s decision to explore Pune as an option.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have also explored alternate venues. They were unable to use the M Chinnaswamy Stadium after a stampede incident. Although the Karnataka government later allowed matches to return under strict safety rules, uncertainty still remains.
Notably, the Maharashtra Cricket Association has not yet committed to hosting either team. Final decisions will depend on BCCI approval, government clearances, and logistical planning closer to the IPL season.
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