The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 witnessed history as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted the coveted trophy for the first time in 18
years. However, the celebrations turned into tragedy when 11 people lost their lives and several got injured in a stampede during the victory festivities in Bengaluru. The heartbreaking incident has led authorities and the franchise to reconsider M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as their home venue due to safety concerns.
With the Women’s ODI World Cup matches in Bengaluru also shifted to Mumbai, RCB could be forced to identify an alternative home ground for the upcoming IPL seasons. Here let us take a look at three stadiums that could serve as potential options.
3 venues RCB could use as home ground in IPL 2026
VCA Stadium, Jamtha, Nagpur
One strong candidate is the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium, located on the southern outskirts of Nagpur. It is known for its world-class facilities and the ground has often been praised by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for its infrastructure and pitch quality.
The stadium has hosted numerous international matches and provides adequate seating and safety arrangements. Adding to the appeal, RCB’s current vice-captain Jitesh Sharma hails from Nagpur, with VCA Stadium serving as his home ground. The connection will only strengthen the franchise’s local engagement if the venue is chosen.
Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
Another possible option is the Holkar Cricket Stadium, situated in New Palasia, Indore. This ground carries historical significance, named after the Holkar dynasty of the Maratha Empire, and has been a sporadic host for international as well as IPL matches.
Interestingly, RCB captain Rajat Patidar is a native of Indore, which could make the choice even more appealing for the franchise. With modern facilities and a vibrant cricket-loving crowd, Indore offers both practicality and emotional closeness as a potential RCB home.
Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara
The recently built Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara could be another possible alternative for RCB. The stadium is situated on the city’s outskirts, and its location reduces the likelihood of overcrowding or stampede-like situations, ensuring safer access for fans.
It also holds an interesting importance, as RCB’s IPL 2025 final Player of the Match, Krunal Pandya, represents Baroda in domestic cricket. The modern infrastructure and relative calm around the stadium makes it an option for the franchise to consider.
