Credit: BCCI/IPL
In the lead-up to the new season of the Indian Premier League, a curious trend has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike: several franchises are conducting their training camps far away from their designated home cities. The development has raised questions about preparation strategies, fan engagement, and whether the concept of “home advantage” is gradually losing its meaning in modern franchise cricket.
Teams such as Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders have all chosen training bases located hundreds and in some cases thousands of kilometres from their official home grounds. While franchise managements often cite logistical convenience, weather conditions, or facility availability as reasons, critics argue that India’s vast cricket infrastructure offers more than enough venues closer to home.
IPL Teams and their Training Centres Currently
| IPL Teams | Training Centre |
| Gujarat Titans | Udaipur |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | Mumbai |
| Punjab Kings | Abu Dhabi |
| Delhi Capitals | Hyderabad |
Fans are unhappy and ended up showing thier unhappiness through their thoughts on X
What is wrong with IPL teams? Gujarat Titans train in Udaipur, Punjab Kings camp in Abu Dhabi, Rajasthan in Talegaon, DC choose Hyderabad and KKR in Mumbai. Everywhere, and anywhere, but home. Don’t blame venue availability because of World Cup. There are plenty of options! https://t.co/yIFE28xVCH
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) February 21, 2026
Though all of them are training somewhere or the other but their home venue - one of the reason for the same can be the ongoing T20 World Cup and the preparation that a stadium requires to host an IPL tournament. Was it a case of availability? Was it a case of something else?
From a performance standpoint, training away from home may not seem problematic. Many teams prefer controlled environments, quieter venues, or specialized facilities that help players focus solely on preparation. Neutral venues can also reduce distractions and allow squads to build chemistry in isolation. However, the IPL is not just a sporting competition; it is a cultural phenomenon built on regional pride, local support, and city-based identity.
The idea of home advantage traditionally extends beyond pitch familiarity. It includes crowd energy, climate adaptation, and emotional comfort factors that can influence player confidence and match outcomes. When teams spend minimal time in their own cities before the tournament, that connection risks weakening. Local fans miss opportunities to watch practice sessions, interact with players, and feel involved in the team’s journey. Over time, this could dilute the strong city-franchise bond that has been central to the league’s success since its inception.
There is also a branding dimension to consider. Franchises invest heavily in regional marketing, merchandise, and community campaigns to strengthen their local presence. Yet physical absence from those very regions can send mixed signals. A team that rarely trains or prepares at home may struggle to sustain authentic grassroots loyalty, especially in emerging cricket markets.
Ultimately, while off-site training camps may offer short-term professional benefits, franchises must balance practicality with identity. The IPL’s long-term strength lies in its deep regional roots. Preserving that connection requires more than matchday appearances, it demands visibility, engagement, and commitment to the cities teams proudly represent.
