Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are poised for a significant return to M Chinnaswamy Stadium following recent positive developments with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
The BCCI has received updates on the venue's readiness after KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad obtained Karnataka government approval to host matches shortly after his election. This follows productive talks between Prasad, vice-president Sujith Somasundar, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and other officials in Belagavi. The KSCA committed to addressing recommendations from the Justice John D'Cunha report on stadium safety.
Virat Kohli could feature for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at Chinnaswamy, with matches shifted from Alur due to security and logistics challenges. Both Kohli and Rishabh Pant are in Delhi's large squad and might play the first three games. The KSCA plans to allow 2000-3000 fans by opening select stands, capitalizing on the star power.
While the Vijay Hazare Trophy takes priority now, the KSCA aims to secure IPL games for Bengaluru. "We're on track for the IPL to return," a source familiar with the situation informed ESPNcricinfo. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar added, "To prevent any future incidents, we have established precautionary protocols. Permissions have been granted accordingly. "
Chinnaswamy has been idle for major events since a tragic June 4 stampede during Challengers Bengaluru's victory celebration, which killed 11 and injured many. The KSCA's Maharaja Trophy moved to Mysore in August, and the stadium skipped Women's Premier League matches, including the final. The Women's World Cup matches were also moved to Navi Mumbai, but now the iconic stadium looks set to return to the mix.
