After months of uncertainty, the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to return to the cricket calendar. Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has confirmed that the venue has been given permission to host Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 matches as well as international events, bringing relief to fans and stakeholders after the prolonged suspension of on-field cricket.
Why was cricket suspended at Chinnaswamy Stadium?
No cricket has been played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium since June last year Tragic stampede breaks out during Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) title celebrations. 11 people lost their lives and several others were injured in the incident, prompting authorities to suspend sporting activities at the venue while an investigation and security review was conducted.
The tragedy cast a long shadow over one of India’s most famous cricket stadiums. As a result, the venue was taken out of hosting duties for several high-profile tournaments, including the upcoming t20 world cup. Domestic matches scheduled at the ground, such as Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures, were also shifted to the BCCI’s Center of Excellence, further underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
KSCA has given a big update on the organization of IPL 2026 matches.
In a significant development, KSCA announced through an official press release that the Home Department of the Government of Karnataka has now approved the resumption of cricket in the stadium. This approval allows the association to host international games as well as IPL 2026 matches, which is a major step towards normalcy.
“We are happy to announce that the Home Department of the Government of Karnataka has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association to host international and IPL matches at the prestigious venue.” Read the statement. However, the approval comes with strict conditions, which require complete compliance with the guidelines laid down by the government and other concerned authorities.
The return of cricket to Chinnaswamy Stadium is closely linked to the implementation of security reforms recommended in the Justice Michael D’Cunha report. The report was commissioned as part of the investigation into the stampede and outlined measures aimed at crowd management, security coordination and emergency response preparedness.
The hosting of matches at the venue will depend on how effectively these recommendations are implemented. Officials are expected to closely monitor compliance, especially during large-scale events such as IPL matches, which regularly attract capacity crowds and high-profile attention.
The decision removes a major hurdle for IPL 2026 plans, especially for RCB, whose home matches were in question due to the uncertainty of the venue. The return of the Chinnaswamy Stadium not only restores a premier IPL venue but also revives the electric atmosphere that Bengaluru is known for during the tournament.
For fans, the update brings cautious optimism. While the return of cricket is welcome, an emphasis on safety protocols is expected to reshape match-day experiences, with tighter controls and increased safety measures.
Also read: IPL 2026 – RCB may sign 3 players to replace Josh Hazlewood if he misses out