Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans, who have endured months of anxiety over the status of their home venue, finally have a reason to cheer. Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday asserted that the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium will continue to host IPL matches and won’t be shifted to another city.
Since RCB clinched their maiden IPL title on June 3 this year, the franchise has faced a turbulent period. A tragic stampede during the team’s victory celebration at Chinnaswamy Stadium led to multiple casualties and prompted authorities to suspend the venue from hosting any professional cricket. As a result, Karnataka’s premier T20 league moved to Mysuru and even Duleep Trophy fixtures avoided the stadium despite being played in Bengaluru.
Pune temporary home ground?
The uncertainty had triggered speculations that RCB could be forced to seek a temporary home ground for IPL 2026. Pune was reportedly being considered as a possible alternative.
However, Shivakumar dismissed the concerns while speaking to media after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections.
What did DKS say?
The Deputy CM took to X and posted that he will not let IPL venue shift from Bengaluru. “Will not allow IPL matches to be shifted out of Chinnaswamy stadium. This is a question of Bengaluru and Karnataka’s pride. We will ensure IPL matches are held here,” he said.
“I am a cricket fan. We will ensure that such incidents don’t recur in the future and uphold the reputation of the stadium. We will also build a new cricket stadium as an alternative,” his post further read.