Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 13: Mumbai Indians (MI) have reportedly denied rejecting a request from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) over the possibility of the defending champions playing their home matches at Navi Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium.

RCB are searching for an alternative base amid uncertainty surrounding the availability of their home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Competitive cricket at the venue has been suspended since June last year following a tragic stampede during RCB’s IPL title celebrations that claimed 11 lives and left several others injured.

Though the Karnataka government recently granted conditional approval for matches to resume at the stadium, the franchise is understood to be cautious and is exploring backup options.

According to a Cricbuzz report, MI indicated that Mumbai should not be treated as the first alternative. The report stated that RCB have already made arrangements with the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh to host some matches in Raipur.

It further claimed that MI conveyed a similar message to the Rajasthan Royals (RR), who are also evaluating contingency plans due to concerns over the readiness of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

As per IPL governing norms, franchises enjoy “territorial rights” over their designated home regions. Since the Wankhede Stadium — MI’s primary home ground — and DY Patil Stadium both fall within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, they are considered part of the same catchment area.

Consequently, RCB or RR cannot adopt DY Patil Stadium as a temporary home venue without prior intimation and clearance from MI.

The report added that RR are likely to continue in Jaipur provided all required conditions are fulfilled.