In a dramatic off-field development during the ongoing Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025), the Rajasthan Royals (RR) franchise has formally approached the Rajasthan state government, seeking immediate action against Jaideep Bihani, the convenor of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). The Royals have expressed serious concerns over what they call “false and baseless” match-fixing allegations levied by Bihani following the team’s narrow loss to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 36 of the tournament.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The controversy erupted after RR’s unexpected defeat to LSG at their home ground. Chasing a target of 181, the Royals needed just nine runs off the final over with wickets in hand. However, the team, captained by Riyan Parag, stumbled shockingly and lost the match by two runs. This surprising loss led to speculation and murmurs among some quarters, including Jaideep Bihani, who publicly raised suspicions of foul play.
Bihani’s remarks questioned the intent and conduct of the Rajasthan Royals players, indirectly suggesting the possibility of match-fixing—a claim that sent shockwaves through the cricketing community and irked the Royals’ management.
Royals Hit Back: ‘Baseless and Devoid of Evidence’
Deep Roy, the official spokesperson for the Rajasthan Royals franchise, vehemently denied the accusations, branding them as “completely false, baseless, and devoid of any evidence.” In a formal complaint addressed to Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, the franchise emphasized the gravity of such allegations and the potential reputational damage they inflict on the team and the IPL at large.
The complaint letter stated,
“These public allegations cause significant reputational damage, fuel unnecessary controversy, and attempt to mislead the public.”
The Royals’ letter not only refuted Bihani’s allegations but also called for disciplinary action to be taken against him for making unfounded claims without any substantiating proof.
Impact on Team and Tournament
This incident has stirred discussions in cricketing circles about the responsibilities of officials and stakeholders when commenting on active tournaments. The Royals, one of the original IPL franchises and winners of the inaugural 2008 season, have maintained a relatively clean image over the years and are now pushing back to preserve that reputation.
The IPL governing council has yet to issue a statement on the matter, but this case may prompt the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to review protocols concerning public statements from state cricket officials during high-stakes tournaments like the IPL.
What’s Next?
With the Rajasthan Royals demanding government intervention, the ball is now in the court of the Rajasthan state authorities. Whether Jaideep Bihani faces any official repercussions for his comments remains to be seen. For now, RR will look to shift focus back to the cricket field and continue their playoff push in IPL 2025.
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