RCB Faces Venue Dilemma Ahead of IPL 2026 Season
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are currently grappling with uncertainty regarding their home ground for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. Reports indicate that their request to utilize DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai has been turned down by the Mumbai Indians (MI).
As per sources from a leading news outlet, MI has urged RCB to explore all other possible venues before considering DY Patil. The Mumbai franchise is concerned about setting a precedent that would allow another team to establish a presence too close to Wankhede Stadium. A source mentioned, "If a franchise wishes to set up at DY Patil, it cannot proceed without the consent of the team based at Wankhede," emphasizing MI's stance that RCB should look into other non-IPL venues across India.
The apprehension stems from the belief that granting permission now could pave the way for additional franchises to host matches in Mumbai, potentially infringing on MI's home advantage.
In the meantime, there are ongoing discussions about RCB's potential return to M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The venue has not been used for significant matches since the incident during RCB's IPL 2025 victory celebrations, and renovations are currently in progress based on recommendations from Justice D'Cunha.
RCB officials, including COO Rajesh Menon, have recently engaged with KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad and Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara. While KSCA is hopeful about RCB's return to Chinnaswamy, the franchise is still assessing other options.
A timely decision is crucial, as communication with the IPL Governing Council and BCCI is necessary before the match schedule is finalized.