Decision on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s return to M Chinnaswamy Stadium tomorrow; inspection to be held today

BENGALURU: The suspense over whether the Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play their Indian Premier League (IPL) home games at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to end on Wednesday, with the state home minister calling for a meeting with the state-appointed committee to take a final call on resumption of matches at the venue.

The Bengaluru-based franchise indicated it's ready to blink by holding its first-ever meeting — since the June 4 stampede that left 11 fans dead — with Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara on Monday. COO Rajesh Menon, KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad and other representatives also attended the meeting facilitated by KSCA.


"At the Wednesday meeting, senior govt, police and law officials will discuss what can be done at the govt level and instructions to be given to the KSCA. The extent of redressal of issues flagged by the Justice D'Cunha committee will have to be considered. We need the CM's approval," Parameshwara said.

The iconic venue has not hosted any major match since the stampede during RCB's IPL victory celebrations. The stadium is currently undergoing tweaks and upgrades in line with the 17 recommendations of the D'Cunha committee. Karnataka Crowd Control Bill, passed in August 2025, remains a major sticking point for the franchise.

At the same time, the Bengaluru franchise has held talks with Chhattisgarh govt about adopting Raipur as home base and has also considered playing a few matches in Navi Mumbai. No alternative has been finalised yet.

KSCA has initiated work on most recommendations, though one suggestion — providing parking within the stadium premises — has been deemed impractical. Key measures underway include creating single-level ground access across the stadium, developing large holding areas at multiple points, widening entry and exit gates, and earmarking dedicated areas for ambulances and fire engines. The work is expected to be completed by March 15.

"They are implementing necessary measures. Whether the city will be part of the IPL schedule is another matter. While people, especially the youth, want cricket matches in Bengaluru, safety is equally important," the minister added.

Prasad described Monday's interaction as "positive". Beyond IPL, KSCA is keen on the resumption of hosting international matches. Hinting at a favourable decision, he said, "Since RCB are the champions, the inaugural is expected to be held at their home ground."