IPL Matches to Resume at M Chinnaswamy Stadium After Karnataka Cabinet Approval
Government clears resumption following safety review; defending champions RCB likely to host season opener
Bengaluru, Feb 13 : Cricket is poised for a comeback at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium after the Karnataka cabinet approved the resumption of Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. The decision follows recommendations from a government-appointed expert panel that evaluated safety, infrastructure, and crowd management at the iconic venue.
Law Minister H K Patil stated that the Home Department will soon issue a comprehensive order detailing the conditions the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) must fulfil before hosting matches. The clearance comes after the department granted conditional approval earlier this year.
The move effectively allows defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru to stage their home fixtures at the stadium, restoring the city’s status as a key IPL destination ahead of the new season, expected to begin on March 26. Traditionally, reigning champions host both the opening ceremony and the tournament’s first match.
Authorities had previously barred KSCA from conducting games at the venue following a tragic stampede outside the stadium on June 4, 2025, during celebrations of Bengaluru’s IPL triumph, which resulted in 11 fatalities.
Earlier in the day, Home Minister G Parameshwara convened a detailed review meeting with representatives from KSCA, RCB, and members of the expert committee led by Maheshwar Rao, chief of the Greater Bengaluru Authority. Officials indicated that the panel was satisfied with the progress made in upgrading safety systems and strengthening infrastructure.
The Justice D’Cunha Committee had proposed 17 measures divided into immediate and long-term actions aimed at enhancing spectator safety. March 15 has been set as the deadline for implementing these requirements, clearing the path for cricket’s anticipated return to the stadium.
