Bengaluru: M Chinnaswamy Stadium is poised to make its return to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) hosting roster after Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad received official clearance from the state government to hold matches at the venue. This approval comes just one week after Prasad’s election, and the BCCI has been informed of these developments.
This decision could lead to immediate on-field implications, particularly with the potential return of Virat Kohli to his home ground. KSCA plans to relocate Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures involving Delhi from Alur to Chinnaswamy due to security and logistical concerns. Both Kohli and Rishabh Pant are included in an expanded Delhi squad and may participate in the first three matches of the tournament.
Prasad, accompanied by KSCA Vice-President Sujith Somasunder, met with Chief Minister Siddharamaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and senior officials in Belagavi earlier this week during the state assembly session. These discussions reportedly facilitated the government approval.
In addition to hosting matches, KSCA is also planning to allow limited public access to the stadium for these domestic fixtures. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 spectators may be allowed entry by opening select stands, especially considering the involvement of prominent Indian players. This would represent a cautious return of fans to a venue that has faced scrutiny.
During meetings with government representatives, the Prasad-led administration reinforced its commitment to implementing as many recommendations as possible from the Justice John D’Cunha report focusing on safety and infrastructure at Chinnaswamy. Hosting Vijay Hazare Trophy matches is seen as an initial step, with a longer-term goal to ensure Bengaluru remains part of the IPL calendar.
The stadium has not hosted any major cricket events since a tragic incident on June 4, during celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory, which resulted in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. Following this, KSCA’s Maharaja Trophy was relocated to Mysore, and the venue lost the opportunity to host five Women’s World Cup matches, including the final.
“We’re on track for the IPL to be back. To avoid any future incidents, we have put in place precautionary measures. We have granted permission accordingly. The Home Minister will engage in discussions with the KSCA president and police officials. We have no intention of halting cricket matches, but crowd-management measures must be considered,” a source informed ESPNcricinfo.
