In a major boost for Karnataka cricket, the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has officially been cleared to host international fixtures and IPL matches once again. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) confirmed the development through a formal press release, ending months of uncertainty around the venue's future.
The announcement marks a significant moment for Bengaluru's cricketing community. The ground had remained inactive since the tragic incident on June 4 last year, when a trophy celebration spiraled into a stampede that claimed 11 lives.
Following the incident, the government imposed strict restrictions, and the stadium was ruled out for all major events, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Women's World Cup. Even
the upcoming Men's T20 World Cup has bypassed the city due to security and logistical concerns.
KSCA's confirmation notes that the clearance comes with firm guidelines. "The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the Government and the concerned authorities. KSCA is confident of fulfilling all the stipulated conditions. The Association has already presented a detailed compliance roadmap before the Expert Review Committee and remains fully committed to implementing all safety, security, and crowd-management measures in letter and spirit," the statement reads.
The shift comes after the Karnataka cabinet granted conditional approval in early December for IPL matches, a move aligned with the priorities of newly-elected KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad. Since taking charge, Prasad has consistently pushed for the revival of the stadium, ensuring that the association met all regulatory expectations.
With the international calendar already set and the World Cup venues locked in, Chinnaswamy's full-scale return will coincide with the IPL 2026 season-significantly, the year Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) walk in as defending champions. The stadium, known for its electric atmosphere and loyal fan base, is now poised to host high-profile fixtures for the first time since 2025.
The reopening marks not just the revival of a venue but the restoration of an emotional home for fans in the city. As preparations begin, Bengaluru is gearing up to welcome big-ticket cricket back to the heart of the city.
