The Indian Premier League (IPL) is no stranger to high-stakes drama, but this week, the fireworks spilled off the field too. Following Rajasthan Royals’ nail-biting two-run loss to Lucknow Super Giants, the franchise has found itself at the centre of an unexpected storm.
And this time, it’s not about a dropped catch or a controversial decision. It’s about match-fixing allegations—and the Royals are not taking them lightly.
A Loss That Sparked a Fire
Let’s rewind a bit. Match 36 of IPL 2025 was a proper edge-of-the-seat thriller. Rajasthan, chasing 181, seemed to be cruising at one stage. But a late collapse saw them fall just two runs short, handing LSG a dramatic win.
Now, cricket is a game of uncertainties. Ups and downs happen. But apparently, the Royals’ loss didn’t sit well with everyone.
Enter Jaydeep Bihani, a senior official from the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). After the game, he publicly hinted at something far more serious—match-fixing. He went on record questioning whether the loss was genuine or a case of deliberate underperformance.
Rajasthan Royals Respond: “Baseless and Harmful”
The response from Rajasthan Royals was swift and strong. In a statement carried by Indian media, the franchise categorically denied all the claims, calling them “false, baseless and completely unfounded.”
And they didn’t stop there.
“These kinds of accusations don’t just target us,” a Royals’ spokesperson said. “They damage the reputation of the BCCI, the Rajasthan Sports Council, and even the game of cricket itself.”
The franchise expressed serious concern about the impact such reckless remarks can have—not only on their image but on their players’ morale and the trust of millions of fans.
The Royals are now taking official steps. They’ve lodged a formal complaint with the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, along with the sports minister and sports secretary, urging immediate action against Bihani for what they’ve described as “irresponsible and defamatory” statements.
And honestly, they have a point. In a tournament as massive and competitive as the IPL, throwing around match-fixing claims without evidence is a huge deal. It casts an unnecessary shadow over an otherwise thrilling season.
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