Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) return to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 remains uncertain, but Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has assured that the state government has no plans to take cricket away from the iconic venue.
Speaking ahead of a crucial cabinet meeting scheduled for December 11, Shivakumar said that a final call on hosting future matches at the stadium will be taken after thorough discussions.
The question gained urgency after a tragic incident earlier this year. Following RCB's historic maiden IPL title win in June, celebrations outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium turned fatal when a massive crowd surge resulted in a stampede, claiming 11 lives and injuring several others. The tragedy raised concerns over
the stadium's safety infrastructure and crowd management practices.
Shivakumar met newly elected Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Venkatesh Prasad at the Circuit House in Belagavi on Wednesday to address these issues. After the meeting, he reiterated that the state remains committed to cricket but must prioritise public safety. "We have no intention of stopping cricket matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, but we have to think of crowd control measures," he said. "We will also have to incorporate Michael D. Cunha's committee suggestions in a phased manner. Venkatesh Prasad has also agreed to it. "
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that Bengaluru will not lose its cricketing identity. "The newly elected President of KSCA and his team met us today seeking government cooperation. We will not allow any matches, including IPL games, to be shifted out of Bengaluru.
We have to work together on this," he said. He further added that the government is exploring the construction of new stadiums in the state to enhance sporting infrastructure. "Our government has also proposed building new stadiums. I wish Venkatesh Prasad and his team, who are supported by Javagal Srinath and Anil Kumble, all the best. "
This situation isn't new for Bengaluru. Earlier this year, ICC Women's ODI World Cup games had to be moved out after the venue failed to secure mandatory approvals. Domestic events, including the Duleep Trophy and India A matches against South Africa A, were held at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence instead.
All eyes now remain on December 11, when the cabinet's decision will determine whether RCB can return to their fortress for IPL 2026.
