RR accused of 'match-fixing' against LSG; RCA's Jaideep Bihani demands probe

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have found themselves engulfed in a major controversy after their narrow two-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during their IPL 2025 clash at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The latest twist has come from Jaideep Bihani, convenor of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) ad hoc committee, who has publicly accused the franchise of match-fixing and called for an investigation.

During an interview, Bihani questioned how RR could lose a match that appeared almost sealed in their favor, especially on home ground. Chasing 181 runs, RR needed just nine runs in the final over with well-set batters Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer at the crease. However, under pressure, Hetmyer fell to Avesh Khan, and the team managed only three runs off the last three balls, falling agonizingly short at 178/5.

Bihani's criticism did not stop at the gameplay. He also lashed out at RR for allegedly sidelining the RCA from the management of the IPL matches this season. He accused the franchise of favoring the Zila Parishad for operational control despite the BCCI initially communicating with the RCA, and questioned the handling of venue agreements for the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

RR's position on the points table reflects their troubled campaign, as they currently sit eighth with just four points from eight matches, having secured only two wins. Dravid, the team's head coach, is facing mounting pressure as injuries to key players like Sanju Samson have further compounded their woes.

The match-fixing allegations have triggered a fresh wave of debates around transparency and governance in the IPL. Whether any formal investigation will be initiated remains to be seen, but the controversy has certainly cast a shadow over Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 campaign.