Rajasthan Royals Face Match-Fixing Claims After IPL Loss
Rajasthan Royals accused of match‑fixing following a narrow defeat to LSG in IPL 2025. Explore the allegations, internal rifts, and what’s next for the embattled franchise.
RCA Convenor Raises Match‑Fixing Allegations
On April 20, the Rajasthan Cricket Association’s ad hoc committee convenor, Jaideep Bihani, ignited controversy by publicly accusing the Rajasthan Royals (RR) of “fixed play” after their two‑run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Speaking as a BJP MLA from Sri Ganganagar, Bihani argued that even a casual observer would question the legitimacy of RR’s chase, particularly when nine runs proved elusive against bowler Avesh Khan in the final over. His remarks marked an unprecedented challenge to the IPL 2008 champions, who have struggled through a disappointing start to the 2025 season.
RR’s Stumbling Chase Sparks Suspicion
In the high‑octane clash at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, RR limped to 156/2, with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and stand‑in skipper Riyan Parag laying a solid foundation. Needing 25 runs from 18 balls, expectations were high—but back‑to‑back wickets of Jaiswal and Parag shifted momentum. The final over, featuring batsmen Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, and Shubham Dubey, witnessed a collective failure to score the required nine runs. This rare collapse in an IPL run chase has intensified scrutiny not just on players but also on the processes that guide match‑day decisions.
Management Rift Between RR and RCA
Bihani didn’t stop at performance critiques; he lambasted the franchise for sidelining the RCA in stadium and match management. “The BCCI’s letter was addressed to RCA, not the local Zila Parishad,” he stated, questioning why RR believed a missing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with stadium authorities would absolve them of obligations. According to Bihani, RR continues to pay venue fees yet denies local administrators any oversight, a dispute that intertwines with the match‑fixing narrative and threatens to escalate beyond the cricket field.
Sanju Samson’s Absence Compounds Woes
Adding to the franchise’s troubles, captain Sanju Samson remains sidelined with an abdominal injury sustained against Delhi Capitals earlier in the season. RR confirmed that Samson will not travel for the April 24 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), postponing any hopes of his inspirational leadership. His absence places extra pressure on young Parag and veteran Hetmyer, who must fill both strategic and motivational voids in the dressing room.
The Road Ahead: High‑Stakes Encounters
With the team languishing eighth on the table—six losses from eight games—RR’s upcoming fixtures carry heightened significance. A trip to Chinnaswamy Stadium to face RCB, followed by a home game against table‑toppers Gujarat Titans on April 28, will test the franchise’s resilience. Will the Royals bounce back through renewed focus and strategic clarity, or will internal discord continue to undermine their campaign?
Conclusion & Takeaways
Rajasthan Royals now face a reckoning on two fronts: clearing their name amid match‑fixing allegations and reversing a slide in form that threatens their IPL aspirations. The franchise must reconcile internal disagreements, address performance lapses, and demonstrate accountability to its supporters and stakeholders moving forward. As investigations loom and critical matches await, RR’s response over the coming weeks will define not only their season but their reputation in the eyes of fans and cricketing authorities alike.
Disclaimer: This article synthesizes official statements and public reports. Allegations discussed are claims made by the RCA ad hoc committee convenor and have not been legally adjudicated.
source : Sports Tak