Rajasthan Royals’ dramatic loss to Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 has triggered match-fixing speculation, as RCA’s Jaideep Bihani levels serious allegations and demands accountability
The Rajasthan Royals find themselves at the center of controversy following a dramatic two-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, prompting questions about the match’s integrity.
Jaideep Bihani, who heads the Rajasthan Cricket Association’s (RCA) ad hoc committee, publicly expressed doubt over the Royals’ performance, hinting at possible wrongdoing. The match, played in Jaipur, saw RR in control at 156 for 2 before an abrupt batting collapse raised eyebrows across the cricketing community.
Bihani didn’t just question the team’s on-field showing—he also accused the Royals, along with the Rajasthan Sports Council and the BCCI, of deliberately sidelining the RCA from the IPL’s local operations. “The lack of a formal agreement with the Sawai Mansingh Stadium is being used as a cover,” he said, pointing out that despite this, match-related payments were still going to the Sports Council.
He further criticized the move to exclude the ad hoc committee from match organization, claiming the RCA had a proven track record of hosting tournaments across all levels.
The Royals, currently being led by Riyan Parag in Sanju Samson’s absence, looked set for victory before key wickets fell in quick succession. Despite having experienced finishers at the crease, the side managed just six runs in the final over—a collapse that Bihani described as suspicious.
Responding to the accusations, RR officials dismissed them as unfounded and damaging. “These comments lack any proof and only harm the image of everyone involved—from the franchise and the Sports Council to the governing body of Indian cricket,” said senior team official Deep Roy.
The Royals have since submitted formal complaints to Rajasthan’s Chief Minister, Sports Minister, and Sports Secretary, urging action against what they describe as defamatory remarks.
The franchise reaffirmed its long-standing relationship with the state and clarified that they were operating fully within BCCI’s current framework, in coordination with the Sports Council and under the state’s supervision.
As RR gear up to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 24, the allegations have revived memories of past controversies, casting a cloud over the current season. Still, the Royals appear determined not to let the off-field noise distract them from their IPL campaign.