Why Has RCB's Final Home Game Against SRH Moved to Lucknow?
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Synopsis
In a surprising twist for IPL 2025, RCB's last home game has been moved to Lucknow due to severe weather conditions in Bengaluru. This decision follows a yellow alert predicting heavy rains, impacting crucial matches as the playoff race heats up. Will this change affect RCB's playoff dreams?
Key Takeaways
- RCB's final home match moved to Lucknow
- Weather conditions prompted venue change
- IPL playoffs relocated for safety
- Three teams have confirmed playoff spots
- Ongoing weather challenges affect scheduling
New Delhi, May 20 (NationPress) Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will no longer host their last home match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during IPL 2025 due to unfavorable weather conditions in Bengaluru. The IPL has officially shifted their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), originally planned for Friday, May 23, to the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
This decision came after a meeting between BCCI and IPL officials on Tuesday, following a yellow alert from the Indian Meteorological Department predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in Bengaluru until Thursday.
Consequently, RCB will now play both of their remaining league matches in Lucknow, facing SRH on May 23 and then the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 27 at the same location.
Amidst these logistical hurdles and weather concerns, the BCCI has also confirmed the finalized venues for the IPL 2025 Playoffs.
The New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur will host Qualifier 1 on May 29 and the Eliminator on May 30, while Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium will stage Qualifier 2 on June 1 and the grand finale on June 3. These games were initially scheduled to take place in Hyderabad and Kolkata but were reassigned due to similar weather-related issues.
Confirming the relocation, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal told IANS, "IPL Match No. 65 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 has been moved to Lucknow's Ekana Stadium due to adverse weather reports. This decision was made following a meeting between BCCI and IPL officials on Tuesday. Moreover, the playoff matches will be held at Narendra Modi Stadium (Final on June 3 and Qualifier 2 on June 1) in Ahmedabad and Mullanpur Stadium (Qualifier 1 on May 29 and Eliminator on May 30) due to the same reasons."
In accordance with the playoffs stage, an additional hour will be allocated to the playing conditions for the remaining league matches, commencing Tuesday, May 20, the IPL stated.
RCB's last home match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was called off without a ball bowled due to incessant rain. Following that, the city has faced significant weather disruptions, including thunderstorms and widespread waterlogging. The ongoing adverse conditions made scheduling another crucial match in Bengaluru impractical.
This venue change comes after a week-long suspension of the tournament earlier this month due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, which caused a pause on May 9 and a resumption on May 17, with the final now pushed from May 25 to June 3.
As the playoff race intensifies, three teams - Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Gujarat Titans (GT) - have already secured their spots. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Mumbai Indians (MI) are fiercely competing for the fourth and final knockout stage position.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that weather conditions can significantly affect sports events. The decision by the IPL to relocate matches is a testament to their commitment to player safety and fair play. While fans in Bengaluru may be disappointed, the league's adaptability highlights its resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was RCB's match relocated to Lucknow?
RCB's match was rescheduled due to unfavorable weather conditions in Bengaluru, including heavy rainfall warnings.
Where will RCB play their remaining matches?
RCB will play their last two league matches in Lucknow at the Ekana Stadium.
What changes were made to the IPL playoff venues?
The IPL playoffs will now take place at the New Chandigarh Stadium and Narendra Modi Stadium, with the matches reassigned from their original locations due to weather issues.
How has the weather affected IPL 2025?
Severe weather has led to match cancellations and venue changes as the league adapts to ensure player safety and maintain the tournament schedule.
What are the implications of the venue change for RCB?
The venue change may impact RCB's home advantage, requiring them to perform at a neutral ground in Lucknow.
