One month ahead of hosting Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur has been sealed by the Rajasthan Sports Council due to alleged non-fulfillment of liabilities, including unpaid dues by the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA).
The RCA’s office and academy, along with the stadium, were sealed after the council claimed that the state cricket body did not meet the conditions outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and failed to make the required payments.
The Rajasthan Sports Council had issued a notice to the RCA on Friday. Requesting the handover of the property, which did not occur. Consequently, the council proceeded to seal the premises, citing the RCA’s alleged non-compliance.
Rajasthan Sports Council secretary Sohan Ram Choudhary stated that despite numerous notices, the RCA did not respond adequately. He mentioned that the RCA received approximately Rs 200 crores but failed to fulfill its obligations, leading to the drastic step taken by the council.
Choudhary assured that despite the sealing, the Sawai Man Singh Stadium would still host IPL matches and other scheduled games. He emphasized that the venue would provide all necessary facilities for players during the matches.
In response, RCA president Vaibhav Gehlot accused the move of being politically motivated. Claimed that his organization was not given sufficient time to respond. Gehlot argued that the pending dues were an old case and that the sealing, especially just before the IPL. Exhibited political malice. He expressed disappointment over the limited time provided for a response and suggested consulting lawyers for further action.
The Sawai Man Singh Stadium is slated to host the opening IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants on March 24, followed by a game between Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals on March 28. The IPL 2024 schedule for the first two weeks and 21 matches was released due to the general elections.
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