IPL 2025: RCB vs SRH Venue Shift to Lucknow Amid Rains; Playoffs Moved to Mullanpur and Ahmedabad

In a significant development affecting the Tata IPL 2025 schedule, the league has announced a key venue change that will impact Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Due to persistent and heavy rainfall in Bengaluru, RCB’s final league match against SRH, originally slated for May 23, has been shifted to the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. This strategic decision follows warnings from the meteorological department, which issued a yellow alert for "heavy to very heavy rain" across South India. As fans follow Tata IPL 2025 Match Predictions and track their favorite teams’ playoff hopes, platforms like Winexch are providing detailed insights and live updates for this unpredictable season.

This move comes after RCB's previous encounter with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was completely washed out without a single ball bowled, causing massive frustration for players and fans alike. The incessant rainfall has rendered several areas of Bengaluru waterlogged, severely affecting cricketing conditions at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. With no clear weather window in sight, the IPL Governing Council opted to shift the match venue to Lucknow to ensure the smooth conduct of this crucial fixture.

This relocation not only gives RCB a better chance to complete their league games without weather interruptions, but it also aligns both of their final matches in a single venue. The team is now set to play both SRH on May 23 and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 27 in Lucknow—minimizing travel and maximizing their chances to finish in the top two of the points table. For RCB, whose strong mid-season surge has brought them into playoff contention, this venue shift could prove pivotal in their campaign.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, on the other hand, had just played a high-intensity clash against LSG in Lucknow on May 19. Given the latest changes, the team has been advised to remain in Lucknow instead of traveling back to Bengaluru, saving valuable recovery time and reducing logistical strain. This could lead to a more evenly matched contest, with both sides well-rested and familiar with the pitch conditions at Ekana Stadium.

In another major update, the IPL playoffs, which were originally scheduled to be hosted in Hyderabad and Kolkata, have now been moved to Mullanpur (New Chandigarh) and Ahmedabad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has cited ongoing weather disruptions and logistical challenges as the primary reasons behind this relocation. The revised schedule confirms that Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator will be held at Mullanpur on May 29 and 30, respectively. Qualifier 2 and the grand IPL 2025 Final are set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 1 and June 3.

These decisions reflect the IPL's proactive approach in ensuring that high-stakes matches are played under ideal conditions. Mullanpur, a newly emerging cricketing hub, will get a golden opportunity to host its first-ever IPL playoffs, while Ahmedabad, with its world-class infrastructure, will again provide a grand setting for the final showdown.

As we near the conclusion of the league stage, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings have already booked their berths in the playoffs. The race for the final spot is now down to Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, who are locked in a tense battle with only a few matches left. The fate of this last playoff position is likely to be decided in a nail-biting finish, as fans and analysts alike turn to Tata IPL 2025 Match Predictions for potential outcomes. Platforms such as Winexch have emerged as key sources for up-to-date predictions, expert match analysis, and live insights into team form and player performances.

From weather challenges to venue shifts and playoff reshuffles, IPL 2025 has turned into one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory. The strategic realignment of fixtures shows the league’s commitment to maintaining integrity and competitiveness despite unforeseen hurdles. As the season approaches its climax, fans can expect drama, excitement, and unforgettable cricketing moments.

Stay tuned to Winexch for all the latest match previews, playoff qualification scenarios, and expert-backed Tata IPL 2025 Match Predictions that help you stay ahead of the game.