Jaipur’s SMS Stadium gets government clean chit for IPL:Chief Secretary writes to BCCI; high-level committee grants permission

Amid speculation over whether Indian Premier League matches would be shifted out of Jaipur, the Rajasthan government has clarified that the city is fully prepared to host the games as scheduled. Chief Secretary V. Srinivas has written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Rajasthan Royals, stating that the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur is structurally sound and safe. He said there were no major concerns related to security or infrastructure, and that all IPL matches allotted to Jaipur can be held at the venue as per the existing schedule. A high-level committee constituted by the State government has also given the stadium a clean chit. Stated in the letter – The Chief Secretary said the State government had received information that Rajasthan’s home franchise, the Rajasthan Royals, had raised certain concerns about safety and security at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. However, the committee’s assessment found no serious issues with the stadium’s structural strength, security arrangements or infrastructure. The committee has recommended a few minor improvements. These suggestions have been accepted, and the government has assured that all necessary works will be completed before the IPL begins. The letter also rejected reports suggesting that matches might be shifted from Jaipur to Pune, describing them as incorrect. Will provide full cooperation to Rajasthan Government, BCCI and Rajasthan Royals In his communication, the Chief Secretary assured full cooperation to the BCCI and the Rajasthan Royals to ensure that IPL matches are held in Jaipur, as in previous seasons. The State Sports Department has been given responsibility for coordination so that all arrangements are completed on time. The Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs, Neeraj Kumar Pawan, has been appointed as the nodal coordinator between the BCCI, Rajasthan Royals, the IPL Governing Council, the Rajasthan Cricket Association and the Rajasthan State Sports Council. This coordination mechanism is expected to facilitate smooth communication among all stakeholders. The Chief Secretary has also invited the BCCI leadership to visit Jaipur during the IPL season. Following the letter, the prospects of Jaipur hosting IPL matches this season are now considered almost certain. Cricket fans in the city are hopeful of witnessing another season of matches at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Situation could become controversial Experts, however, point out that the ongoing dispute within the Rajasthan Cricket Association could still create complications during the IPL. They say the situation will need close monitoring to ensure that administrative issues do not affect the conduct of matches.