Chinnaswamy Stadium - (Source: X.com)
In a significant development, the Karnataka government has allowed KSCA to host IPL and international games at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Notably, the iconic stadium in Bengaluru has not hosted a solitary game since the unfortunate stampede that happened on June 4, a day after RCB won the IPL title for the first time in their history.
A report from Cricbuzz stated that the government has granted the permission to Venkatesh Prasad-led KSCA to allow matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Therefore, the Rajat Patidar-led side will not travel to Raipur or any other venue for IPL 2026 and will play all their games at home.
The officials have clearly instructed RCB and the KSCA to follow safety protocols, traffic management and not repeat the past mistake that led to the loss of 11 lives.
KSCA issues press release citing condition allowance from government
As mentioned above, the government has allowed RCB to play home games for IPL 2026 at Chinnaswamy stadium only if they comply with the security protocols.
"The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the Government and the concerned authorities. KSCA is confident of fulfilling all the stipulated conditions. The Association has already presented a detailed compliance roadmap before the Expert Review Committee and remains fully committed to implementing all safety, security, and crowd-management measures in letter and spirit," read a press release from Karnataka State Cricket Association.
RCB to not play home games in Raipur and Pune
A few days ago, there were reports that RCB will play their IPL 2026 matches in Pune and Raipur. According to TOI, defending champions RCB were likely to play their IPL 2026 home games at two neutral venues, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur.
The report had also added that the defending champions are unwilling to return to Chinnaswamy Stadium because of the stampede which left the players and support staff traumatised and emotionally disturbed.
KSCA to install AI cameras to look after safety
In the latest events, RCB's latest bid to Karnataka government to get a nod to host IPL 2026 matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium was a promie to install AI camera to look after the safety and security of the fans.
RCB proposed the installation of 300 to 350 AI-enabled cameras across the Chinnaswamy Stadium to the KSCA and agreed to spend around 4.5 crores, which will be done by the franchise themself.
Notably, RCB took to social media platforms where they made an official announcement regarding the same. The franchise stated that the proposed move will help manage overcrowding and prevent stampede like situation. Further, RCB have also promised that they will not repeat the past mistakes.
Talking about IPL 2026, RCB will defend their title and it is a great delight for the fans that they will get to see their team play in their home town.
