RCB to Play IPL 2026 Matches in Raipur Amid Venue Controversy
RCB vs MI: A Crucial IPL 2026 Encounter
On Sunday, May 10, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will face off against Mumbai Indians (MI) in a significant match for the playoff race of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). This encounter will take place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, rather than the usual M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This marks a historic moment as it is the first time RCB will play home games in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. Previously, RCB had played their first five home matches of the season at their traditional venue in Bengaluru, winning four out of those five games.
Reasons for RCB's Venue Change
Why Are RCB Playing IPL 2026 Home Games In Raipur?
RCB will conclude their home games for the season in Raipur, with a match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) scheduled for Wednesday, May 13. The decision to play some home games outside Bengaluru stems from uncertainties regarding the Chinnaswamy Stadium's ability to host matches following a tragic incident during celebrations last year. Due to this lack of clarity, RCB sought an alternative venue and agreed to play two matches in Raipur. Even after receiving permission to play in Bengaluru, the franchise chose to honor their prior commitment.
Official Statement from RCB
RCB Statement On Home Venue
In March, RCB announced that they had secured permission to host matches in Bengaluru but confirmed that only five of their home games would be played at Chinnaswamy, with two matches set for Raipur. The statement expressed gratitude to the Government of Karnataka and other authorities for their support in facilitating the return of matches to Bengaluru. However, the remaining two games will still take place in Raipur as per their earlier agreement.
No Further Matches in Bengaluru for IPL 2026
No More Matches For Bengaluru In IPL 2026
Although Bengaluru was initially slated to host a playoff and the final due to RCB's defending champion status, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ruled out this possibility due to ticket allocation complications. Consequently, no further matches will be held in Bengaluru this season.
Raipur's IPL History
Has Raipur Hosted IPL Before?
Raipur has previously hosted six IPL matches from 2013 to 2016, serving as the second home ground for the Delhi Daredevils. RCB's last appearance in Raipur was in 2016, where they secured a victory against the Delhi team by six wickets.