New Delhi: The Rajasthan Royals have strongly refuted match-fixing allegations made by Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) ad-hoc committee convener Jaideep Bihani, following their narrow two-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in a recent IPL 2025 match. The Royals have labeled the claims as defamatory and damaging, and have demanded strict action against Bihani from the Rajasthan government and the state’s Sports Council.
The controversy began after Bihani publicly questioned the Royals’ failure to chase down nine runs in the final over of the match, despite having six wickets in hand. His remarks, suggesting potential manipulation or foul play, have sparked outrage within the franchise.
In an official letter addressed to the Rajasthan government and the Sports Council, Rajasthan Royals stated that Bihani’s comments have severely tarnished their reputation and questioned the integrity of not just the team, but also the BCCI and Rajasthan Sports Council.
“Such public accusations severely harm the image and credibility of Rajasthan Royals, Royal Multi Sport Private Limited, and the governing bodies involved,” the franchise wrote. “His statements have unnecessarily stirred controversy and misled the public without any credible basis.”
The Royals also rejected Bihani’s claim that the RCA had been unfairly excluded from managing IPL matches at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. According to the franchise, the decision to work exclusively with the Rajasthan Sports Council was in line with BCCI directives for the 2025 IPL season.
“Rajasthan Sports Council has been designated by the BCCI as the official host for IPL matches in Jaipur this year. Accordingly, Rajasthan Royals have coordinated with the Council and the BCCI, with full support from the state government, to ensure the smooth conduct of matches,” the letter clarified.
Dismissing Bihani’s claims as “false and baseless,” the franchise further alleged that the convener’s accusations not only cast unwarranted aspersions on their operations but also undermined the credibility of cricket administration in the state.
The Royals emphasized that they have been consistently working with the state association and government in compliance with BCCI regulations for the past 18 years, and called for immediate disciplinary measures against Bihani to prevent further reputational harm.
As of now, neither the Rajasthan government nor the Sports Council has publicly responded to the Royals’ appeal.
