IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians Decline DY Patil Stadium Request, RCB's Search for Home Venue Continues

As preparations for IPL 2026 gather pace, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are still without a confirmed home ground. The franchise has been actively searching for a new venue ahead of the upcoming season, with DY Patil Stadium emerging as their top preference. However, RCB’s plans have hit a roadblock after Mumbai Indians (MI) refused to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the venue.

Mumbai Indians Say No to DY Patil Stadium

According to sources cited by The Times of India

, Mumbai Indians are not keen on allowing RCB to use DY Patil Stadium as their home ground. MI reportedly suggested that RCB should first explore other available venues across the country before approaching DY Patil.

A source close to MI said,
“Why does RCB want DY Patil Stadium? There are several other stadiums available across India. RCB should look at alternative venues first. There are many non-IPL centres such as Rajkot, Pune, Raipur, Visakhapatnam, and Indore

, all of which have successfully hosted IPL matches in the past. If we allow DY Patil today, tomorrow another franchise may ask to play at Brabourne Stadium.”

This stance makes it clear that Mumbai Indians are in no mood to open up their home venues to rival franchises.

DY Patil Ruled Out, Raipur and Indore in Focus

With DY Patil Stadium now out of contention, RCB has turned its attention to other cities. Reports suggest that the franchise has already held discussions with the Chhattisgarh government

to host two home matches in Raipur. The remaining five home games are likely to be scheduled in Indore, making it a strong contender as RCB’s temporary base.

RCB Still Hoping for a Return to Bengaluru

Despite exploring alternatives, RCB has not completely given up on Bengaluru. Following a tragic stampede during RCB’s IPL 2025 victory procession on June 4, which resulted in injuries and loss of lives, the Karnataka government imposed a ban on cricket matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium

.

However, RCB officials have since met with the Karnataka Home Minister, and the discussions reportedly yielded positive signals. While no final decision has been taken, the franchise continues to push for permission to host matches in Bengaluru.

Time Running Out for RCB

With the IPL 2026 schedule expected to be announced soon, RCB faces mounting pressure to finalize its home venue. Until an official confirmation arrives, the franchise remains caught between hope for Bengaluru and contingency plans in Raipur and Indore.