“IPL matches will stay at Chinnaswamy Stadium,” says Karnataka DCM D.K. Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has assured fans that Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will continue to host IPL matches — including all fixtures for IPL 2026. He spoke after casting his vote in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections on Sunday, responding to calls for relocating games following the tragic crowd‑crush during celebrations this year.

In the aftermath of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL‑2025 victory, a stampede outside the stadium gates left 11 people dead and at least 30-75 fans injured, according to official reports.

Shivakumar said: “This is a matter of respect for Karnataka and Bengaluru. We will ensure the next IPL matches are held here.” He added the state government aims to safeguard the stadium’s dignity through stricter crowd management under legal norms, while plans are afoot to build a larger venue to accommodate growing demand.

On the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup schedule, he said Karnataka will gladly host whatever matches come its way, reaffirming the state’s commitment to international cricket.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 “mini auction” on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, a smaller‑scale one‑day event where teams mostly fill gaps rather than rebuild squads, RCB have released overseas players such as Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, Tim Seifert, and Blessing Muzarabani, while retaining left-arm pacer Yash Dayal. Opening batter Mayank Agarwal stays with the squad; promising youngster Swastik Chikara departs without playing last season.

Shivakumar’s firm stance reinforces Bengaluru’s place on the IPL map, while acknowledging the price paid. The state aims to balance fan enthusiasm with safety and dignity, ensuring the cheers return under safer conditions.