A thrilling IPL 2025 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has sparked controversy, with allegations of match-fixing surfacing after RR’s dramatic two-run defeat on April 19 at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
The accusations led by Jaydeep Bihani, convener of Rajasthan Cricket Association’s (RCA) ad hoc committee and a BJP MLA, have ignited a heated dispute, drawing responses from RR, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and state authorities.
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Chasing 181, RR appeared in control, needing just nine runs in the final over with six wickets in hand. LSG’s Avesh Khan, however, turned tide, conceding only six runs and taking a wicket, leading to RR’s collapse at 178/5.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (45) and debutant Vaibhav Suryavanshi (38) set a solid platform with an 85-run opening stand, while Riyan Parag added 39, but key batters Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel faltered in the clutch.
Bihani, in an interview with News18 Rajasthan, claimed the loss was suspicious, stating, “Even a child could say after watching the last over that the match was fixed.”
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He questioned how RR, with seasoned players, failed to score nine runs against Avesh Khan, calling the outcome “unbelievable” and hinting at deliberate tampering. Bihani also criticized IPL’s organizational structure, alleging the Rajasthan Sports Council (RSSC) sidelined the RCA from hosting duties, despite BCCI’s initial outreach to RCA.
Rajasthan Royals’ Response
RR swiftly denounced Bihani’s claims as “false, baseless, and without evidence,” arguing they damage the franchise’s reputation, BCCI, RSSC, and cricket’s integrity. In a formal letter to Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, and Sports Secretary, RR demanded strict action against Bihani.
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Deep Roy, a senior RR official, emphasized the franchise’s 18-year compliance with BCCI guidelines and its coordination with RSSC, which holds hosting rights for IPL matches in Jaipur.
The franchise highlighted that Bihani’s accusations stem partly from a dispute over RCA’s exclusion from IPL management alleging RCA was denied accreditation and involvement due to the lack of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sawai Mansingh Stadium. RR clarified that BCCI regulations mandate working with the RSSC, dismissing claims of collusion.
BCCI and RSSC Stance
BCCI, through an anti-corruption unit official, rejected the allegations, stating, “There is no truth to these claims of match-fixing by RCA.”
The board emphasized its robust measures to curb corruption, implemented since the 2012-13 spot-fixing scandals. RSSC Chairperson Niraj K Pawan called the accusations regrettable, urging anyone with evidence to approach relevant agencies, and expressed confidence in BCCI’s strict protocols.
Historical Context and Ticket Dispute
RR’s history includes a proven fixing scandal in 2013, when co-owner Raj Kundra was implicated in betting, leading to a two-year ban (2016-17) alongside Chennai Super Kings. This past fuels skepticism among fans when matches like LSG defeat occur.
A Times of India report suggests Bihani’s allegations may be linked to a ticket dispute. RCA, typically allocated 1,800 tickets per match, received significantly fewer in 2025, potentially fueling their discontent. This organizational friction, rather than concrete evidence, may underlie fixing claims.
Public and Political Reaction
Controversy has divided opinions. Some fans, echoing sentiments on X, believe IPL matches, including RR’s loss, appear “scripted” due to unexpected collapses, with one user claiming “30% of IPL matches are fixed.” Others dismiss such theories, citing the game’s unpredictability.
Bihani’s dual role as an RCA official and BJP MLA adds a political dimension. His allegations, amplified by his public profile, have escalated the issue, prompting RR to seek governmental intervention. RCA’s frustration over losing IPL hosting rights to RSSC, despite its track record with ICC and BCCI events, further complicates the narrative.
Implications and Outlook
RR, currently eighth in IPL 2025 points table with two wins from eight matches, face mounting pressure. The absence of captain Sanju Samson, sidelined by injury, and a string of losses, including a prior failure to chase nine runs against Delhi Capitals, have intensified scrutiny.
While Bihani’s claims lack substantiation, they revive debates about IPL’s integrity, a recurring theme given past scandals. Without evidence or formal BCCI investigation, the allegations remain speculative.
However, the public spat risks tarnishing RR’s campaign and the league’s reputation. As RR prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 24, focus shifts to whether they can rebound on the field and quell off-field tensions.
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The outcome of RR’s complaint against Bihani and any potential BCCI probe will determine the controversy’s resolution. For now IPL continues to captivate, blending thrilling cricket with persistent whispers of fixing that keep fans and critics engaged.