IPL 2025 Controversy: Rajasthan Royals Accused of Match-Fixing by RCA Official After Narrow Loss to LSG

Jaipur : In a sensational development during the ongoing IPL 2025 season, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have come under scrutiny after a narrow two-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The franchise has been accused of match-fixing by Jaideep Bihani, convenor of the Ad Hoc Committee of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA).

The match, which required the Royals to chase down just nine runs in the final over, ended dramatically as Avesh Khan successfully defended the total. Despite a steady start, RR’s hopes faded after Shimron Hetmyer was dismissed on the third delivery, and Shubham Dubey failed to score the six runs needed off the final three balls. The result marked Rajasthan’s sixth loss of the season, raising questions among fans and stakeholders.

In a televised interview with News18 Rajasthan, Bihani voiced serious allegations, questioning the integrity of the team’s performance and accusing the franchise of undermining the role of the RCA in managing IPL affairs in the state.“The ad hoc committee was formed by the state government and has been extended multiple times to ensure smooth functioning of cricket operations in Rajasthan. But once IPL started, control was taken over by the Zila Parishad. The Royals and others cite the lack of an MoU with the stadium — but if that’s the case, why are they still paying the Zila Parishad per match?” Bihani stated.

He further alleged that despite the BCCI’s initial communication being addressed to RCA, the association has been deliberately excluded from IPL operations, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction within the state’s cricket administration.

As of now, the Rajasthan Royals have not released any official statement regarding the allegations. The accusations have triggered widespread debate across cricketing circles, with fans and former cricketers expressing concern over the serious nature of match-fixing claims.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council are expected to review the matter. Should a formal complaint be lodged, an independent investigation may be launched to probe the incident thoroughly.

Despite the controversy, Rajasthan Royals remain in contention for a playoff berth, but the pressure is mounting — both from on-field challenges and off-field controversies.