IPL 2025 Pitch Row Intensifies as RCB Joins the Debate
The ongoing controversy over pitch conditions in IPL 2025 has escalated, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB becoming the latest team to voice dissatisfaction. RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik expressed frustration over the pitches provided for their home games at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Incidentally, RCB has lost both matches played at their home venue, including a six-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals, driven by KL Rahul’s unbeaten 93-run knock.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Karthik revealed that RCB had requested batting-friendly surfaces but were instead handed challenging tracks. “In T20 cricket, more runs mean better viewing for fans and broadcasters. We asked for good pitches but got surfaces that were tough to bat on,” he stated. Karthik added that the team plans to discuss the matter with the curator while trusting him to do his job.
RCB’s concerns echo grievances from other franchises like KKR and LSG, who have criticized curators for failing to provide home advantage. KKR captain AjinkyaRahane had earlier asked for spin-friendly pitches at Eden Gardens, while LSG mentor Zaheer Khan questioned the Ekana Stadium’s surface after a defeat to Punjab Kings.
With teams struggling to adapt, the pitch row has sparked debates about balancing neutrality with home-team preferences in IPL venues.