IPL 2025: Rajiv Gandhi int'nl stadium in Hyderabad faces scrutiny ahead of Playoffs after rain washout

As IPL 2025 approaches its high-stakes playoff stage, doubts are being raised about the readiness of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad, following a rain-marred fixture and criticism over inadequate drainage and ground coverage.

Rain Washes Out Crucial Match, SRH Suffers

The recent clash between SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was called off due to a wet outfield, despite a brief opportunity for a potential restart. Heavy rain hit the venue for over an hour after Delhi's innings, and while the rain did eventually stop, play could not resume due to a waterlogged outfield.

The result was particularly disappointing for SRH, who were in a commanding position after restricting DC to 133/7. The no-result has now effectively ruled them out of playoff contention, a bitter pill for a team that was eyeing a crucial win.

Inadequate Drainage and Poor Coverage Raise Eyebrows

While many stadiums across India including Chinnaswamy (Bengaluru), Chepauk (Chennai), and Eden Gardens (Kolkata) are equipped with advanced drainage systems and full ground covers, the facilities at Uppal fell short. HCA officials claimed 90% of the ground was covered, but SRH management strongly contested this, arguing that the real coverage was far from adequate.

“We’ve never faced such a situation before. I agree the covers were inadequate, and we’ll address the issue immediately,” said HCA Secretary P. Devaraj.

Franchise Discontent: SRH to Write to BCCI

Understandably, the SRH franchise is upset. Senior officials confirmed they would formally raise the issue with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), especially considering that they pay Rs 1 crore per match to host games at Uppal Stadium.

“It’s sad. We’re going to write to the BCCI,” said an SRH official. The team believes that a better ground setup could have saved their playoff hopes.

Playoff Worries: Qualifier and Eliminator Loom Large

The bigger concern now is that Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator are both scheduled to be held at the same venue on May 20 and 21. With rain a possibility and questions around the venue’s preparedness still looming, HCA will need to act swiftly to avoid further embarrassment.

“We will ensure everything is in place before the playoffs,” promised HCA officials.