IPL 2026: Cricket Returns to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as RCB Cleared to Host Matches

Bengaluru, Feb 13: Cricket is set to roar back to life at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise has been given the green light to host Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at its home ground ahead of the 2026 season. The decision comes after months of uncertainty following a tragic crowd incident in 2025.

The Karnataka state cabinet approved the resumption of matches at the stadium, following a recommendation by a government-appointed committee led by Maheshwar Rao, chief of the Greater Bengaluru Authority. This builds on a prior conditional clearance granted by the state's home department earlier this year, paving the way for the stadium's return as a top cricketing venue.

IPL 2026: Return of Cricket After Safety Review

The M. Chinnaswamy

Stadium had been under scrutiny since a crowd crush on June 4, 2025, which occurred outside the venue during celebrations for RCB's maiden IPL title win. The tragic incident resulted in 11 fatalities and prompted authorities to revoke the stadium's clearance for hosting large-scale events, including cricket matches, until safety standards were reassessed.

Following extensive discussions between the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), RCB officials, and state government authorities, the cabinet has now approved IPL matches at the venue, subject to enhanced safety and security protocols.

Karnataka deputy CM, DK Shivakumar posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, "Good News for Cricket Lovers of Bengaluru & Karnataka. In the interest of the sport and its fans, the Cabinet today has taken an important decision to permit the conduct of IPL matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, while keeping public safety paramount.

The recommendations of the Justice John Michael D'Cunha Report will be implemented, with strict adherence to norms on ticketing, crowd regulation, and stadium access. With responsibility and accountability, we move forward. "

What the Approval Means for RCB and Fans

This announcement lifts a cloud of uncertainty for Bengaluru cricket enthusiasts and RCB supporters, who were unsure where the defending IPL champions would host their home games in the 2026 season. With the government's conditional nod, the franchise can plan to play crucial IPL fixtures at their traditional home ground, restoring normalcy and excitement ahead of a highly anticipated season.

The restoration of the Chinnaswamy Stadium as a venue will likely allow the team to host matches in front of fans once again, albeit with strict compliance to improved stadium infrastructure, crowd control measures and emergency response systems to ensure spectator safety.

Context of Venue Challenges

Before this approval, there was significant speculation about alternative venues for RCB's home games. Discussions included potential matches at DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai and considerations by other franchises over hosting RCB fixtures outside Bengaluru.

However, with the Karnataka government's formal clearance, the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium - a historic cricketing venue since the 1970s - will once again play host to high-profile IPL action.

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, fans in Bengaluru and across India will watch closely as the stadium prepares to welcome professional cricket back to its stands. With improved safety protocols now in place, RCB's home ground is set to reclaim its status as a premier venue for world-class T20 cricket.