Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Jan 17: There is welcome news for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans, as the state government has granted permission to host IPL matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, ending weeks of uncertainty following the stampede incident last year at the venue.
The stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium had come as a double shock to cricket fans, with over 11 people losing their lives and several others sustaining serious injuries. In the aftermath, the hosting of matches at the stadium had been put on hold, with both the BCCI and the state government imposing restrictions.
However, the newly elected Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) office-bearers’ team, led by Venkatesh Prasad, held sustained discussions with various stakeholders and worked towards ensuring enhanced safety measures. Their efforts appear to have paid off, with matches set to return to the iconic venue.
According to reports, the government-appointed committee, which examined the pros and cons of organising matches after the stampede, has now given its green signal for conducting IPL and international matches at the stadium, subject to strict conditions and security norms.
The government committee has reportedly approved the hosting of matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, following which the KSCA is expected to make an official announcement shortly. Enhanced security arrangements and compliance with multiple safety conditions have been made mandatory for granting permission.
Based on the committee’s report, the state government is said to have cleared the way for most of the IPL matches scheduled in Bengaluru. This means RCB’s home matches are likely to be held in the city itself, much to the relief of fans, who were worried about possible relocation.
Earlier, reports had suggested that the RCB franchise was considering hosting home matches in Pune or Raipur due to safety concerns. However, the franchise later held discussions with the KSCA regarding security arrangements, including the installation of AI-based cameras, strict crowd control measures and adherence to safety protocols.
These developments indicated the franchise’s clear preference to play its home matches in Bengaluru, indirectly putting an end to speculation about shifting games out of the city.
With IPL preparations gaining momentum and confusion over match venues now largely resolved, RCB fans have reason to celebrate once again. The strong possibility of matches being held at Chinnaswamy Stadium means supporters will get another chance to cheer their favourite team from the stands.