Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) could find themselves away from their fortress next Indian Premier League (IPL) season, as their traditional home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, faces suspension following the tragic stampede that occurred outside the venue on June 4 during the team's victory parade.
The incident claimed 11 lives and left several others injured, prompting authorities to reassess the stadium's safety standards and crowd management measures.
In light of this, discussions are underway for RCB to play their home fixtures at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Gahunje, Pune. While the move is yet to be finalized, MCA secretary Kamlesh Pisal confirmed preliminary talks are ongoing between both parties.
"This arrangement
is in discussion but not confirmed yet. Because of the unfortunate stampede, they are looking for an alternate venue, and we have offered our stadium. Some technical aspects still need to be sorted out, but if all goes well, Pune could host RCB's matches," Pisal told The Times of India.
Adding to the uncertainty, RCB's ownership is also set for a major transition. Diageo, through its Indian subsidiary United Spirits Limited (USL), has initiated the process to sell its cricket franchise business, Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL), which owns both the men's and women's RCB teams. The sale process is expected to conclude by March 31, 2026.
"USL is conducting a strategic review of its investment in RCSPL, which manages the RCB franchises participating in both the IPL and the Women's Premier League," Diageo had stated in an earlier disclosure.
Despite these off-field developments, RCB's on-field setup remains stable. There have been no reports of major player trades or releases ahead of the upcoming mini-auction. The reigning champions, who finally broke their title drought last season, are likely to retain their balanced squad that combined tactical signings with bowling depth to deliver long-awaited success.
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