Will Rajasthan Royals Play in Jaipur? Expert Committee Gives Clean Chit to SMS Stadium

Jaipur: In a major relief for cricket fans in Jaipur, the uncertainty surrounding the safety of the Sawai Mansingh (SMS) Stadium has finally eased. A high-level expert committee has given the stadium a clean chit in its preliminary report, declaring it safe for hosting IPL matches.

The development comes amid recent speculation that the Rajasthan Royals might shift their home matches to Pune, following concerns raised about the stadium’s structural safety.

Committee Declares Stadium Safe for IPL

According to Sports Secretary Neeraj Kumar Pawan, a committee consisting of the Additional Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) and structural experts from MNIT (Malaviya National Institute of Technology) carried out a detailed inspection of the stadium.

The committee’s initial findings confirmed that the SMS Stadium is structurally sound and safe.

The report stated that the venue is fully fit to host major tournaments like the IPL, provided that a few minor improvements and repairs are completed.

Speculation of Pune Shift Comes to an End

A few days ago, reports suggested that the Rajasthan Royals management was considering shifting its home ground to Pune due to safety concerns. This triggered disappointment among Jaipur fans, who feared that the Pink City might lose its IPL hosting rights.

Following the controversy, the Rajasthan government, under Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, held discussions with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), the BCCI, and the Royals’ management.

Now, the positive inspection report has significantly reduced the risk of Jaipur losing IPL matches.

SMS Stadium Has Hosted Major Events Successfully

State officials pointed out that the SMS Stadium has recently hosted major events such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Indian Army Day celebrations without any disruption, which further strengthens the claim that the venue is capable of handling large-scale gatherings.

Ground Staff Begins Improvement Work

Meanwhile, RCA’s ad-hoc committee convenor Deendayal Kumawat stated that ground staff have already begun the necessary improvement work as suggested by experts.

He added that Jaipur will once again witness the famous Rajasthan Royals chant of “Halla Bol”, as IPL matches are expected to remain in the city.