The Board of Control for Cricket in India has maintained the existing ban on businessman Raj Kundra, effectively disallowing him from any involvement in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Sources told NDTV that Kundra recently wrote a formal letter to the BCCI, flagging concerns over the stake sale process and prompted the board's legal team to initiate a detailed review of the matter. The investigation will determine whether any further action or reconsideration is warranted.
The move is seen as an attempt to get a stake in the sale. However, any franchise control change requires prior BCCI approval. Within its scope, BCCI will examine the deal structure, cap table and determine the potential buyer checks for the 'right fit'. A new buyer clearance requires financial and background diligence by BCCI.
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Kundra may need court relief to legally halt the transaction. BCCI sources clarified that no developments regarding Kundra's possible re-entry or association with IPL matters — particularly those linked to the Rajasthan franchise — will proceed until the legal review is completed.
Rajasthan Royals was purchased by the Kal Somani-backed consortium for $1.63 billion for over Rs 15,000 crore this week, marking one of the most significant acquisitions in IPL team history. Somani is a US-based entrepreneur who has held a minority stake in Rajasthan Royals so far. He has now joined forces with Walton, who is the eldest son of Walmart founder Sam Walton and is among the richest individuals in the world.
The Bombay High Court on Monday allowed Raj Kundra to challenge an ex parte anti-suit injunction issued by the High Court of England and Wales concerning his 11.7% stake in Rajasthan Royals. Justice Abhay Ahuja granted leave under Clause XII of the Letters Patent, permitting Kundra to institute proceedings on the Original Side of the High Court. The proposed suit seeks a declaration that the UK court's anti-suit injunction is invalid in law, along with permanent, interim and ad-interim injunctions.
The dispute is linked to the post-2015 Lodha Committee reforms. The Lodha Committee barred Kundra from the franchise involvement. Kundra argues that he retained financial interest despite the exit mandate. Notably, the current dispute is unlikely to impact IPL 2026 season. Sources believe the move may pressure parties into settlement talks. BCCI's focus remains on fair control, compliance, and no inconsistencies. Reports have suggested that former IPL chairman and founder, Lalit Modi, may have joined hands with Kal Somani's group to form a stronger bidding consortium.
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