‘Play the entire season there only’ – R Ashwin’s take on RR’s home disadvantage ahead of IPL 2026

Indian legend and former Rajasthan Royals cricketer R Ashwin has questioned the franchise’s need to play home games at multiple venues.

Rajasthan Royals are slated to play their first three home games at the Barasapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, with the venue for their remaining home games yet to be decided. Over the years, the Royals have alternated between the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur, their traditional home ground, and the Barasapara Stadium. Since 2023, out of the six games that have been held in Guwahati, the Royals have managed to win only two. 

Ashwin believes that playing at a solitary venue would help the Rajasthan Royals, even if it is at the Barasapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

“I thought their team got a slight upgrade when they got both Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. But they have a lot of things going for them, as well as not going for them. They have not been playing at one venue, and that is just not fair. I know Riyan Parag is the captain, and he will get support in Assam, I understand all that, but if you want to play, play the entire season there only,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Ashwin also referred to his time as captain of the Punjab Kings, where the team had to play matches at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. Punjab Kings are one of the franchises who over the years have alternated their home venues. Few matches from their home season are held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala.

“I was the Kings XI Punjab (Punjab Kings) captain when we had to play a few matches in Indore, and that is a huge factor. I know there is gate collection, and fan support. RR have a lovely brand and an ecosystem, it is close to my heart because I enjoyed that team environment,” he added.

Rajasthan Royals start their campaign against the Chennai Super Kings on March 30 at the Barasapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.