IPL 2026| Chinnaswamy Stadium officially cleared to host matches by Karnataka government

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on former champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in the inaugural match of the IPL 2026 on March 28.

The Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been officially given the nod by Karnataka government to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches this season.

This follows a meeting that Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) officials had with the state home minister G Parameshwara.

"Based on the recommendations of the Expert Committee and after reviewing the arrangements in detail, the Home Minister has formally accorded approval for the conduct of the upcoming IPL matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru," said KSCA Spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya in a press statement.

It may be recalled that the KSCA officials had met the state government constituted Expert Committee, giving detailed presentation of the security enhancement works being carried out at the stadium.

A mock drill was carried last week out for about two and a half hours with over 50 people assisting in the inspection.

The gates of the stadium have now been widened to accommodate the crowds and new gates have been added on Cubbon Road.

Cricket activities were put on hold at the stadium, following the stampede that killed 11 fans during RCB's victory parade following their maiden title win on June 4, 2025.

Since that tragic indecent, the venue has not hosted any major domestic matches including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy or even the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20.

"KSCA looks forward to extending full cooperation and support to RCB in hosting the upcoming IPL matches in a safe, well-coordinated and professionally managed manner, ensuring a memorable experience for cricket lovers and the sporting community," Mruthyunjaya added.

Defending champions RCB will take on former champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in the inaugural match of the IPL 2026 on March 28.

RCB will play five of their home matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The final of the T20 franchise-based league and one off the play-off matches will also be held at the KSCA-affiliated ground.