Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar has made it clear that no IPL matches will be shifted from Bengaluru next season. He said that all IPL 2026 matches scheduled for the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will go ahead as scheduled.
He was speaking after casting his vote in the KSCA elections. His message came at a time when many fans feared major matches would be rescheduled following the tragic overcrowding incident during RCB’s title celebrations.
Shivakumar said the government will be fully prepared for future events. He added that security will be tightened for every major match, including the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup matches. He emphasized that Bengaluru will not lose its place as an important cricketing city.
The deputy CM also spoke about his personal bond with the sport. He said, “I am a member of KSCA. When I was young, Nagaraj gave me membership. His son is my classmate. I know many people from Brijesh Patel including Anil Kumble and Prasanna. I voted for the ones I wanted.”
He added that Chinnaswamy Stadium should remain dignified. He said: “We will ensure that the recent disaster does not happen again and ensure that the dignity of the stadium is preserved. The stadium will be developed by managing the crowd within the legal framework. In addition, we will build a bigger stadium as an alternative.”
Looking ahead to IPL 2026
The state is planning to build a new and bigger cricket stadium in Bengaluru. This is expected to ease public pressure and help the city host more international events in the future.
Meanwhile, the IPL teams have already started preparations for the next season. The IPL 2026 mini-auction will be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. It will be a one-day event and it is the third year in a row that the auction will take place abroad.
The defending champions have released Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, Tim Seifert and Blessing Muzarabani. They reshape their overseas group as they plan for another strong season.
Shivakumar summed up his stand by saying, “This is a matter of respect for the state of Karnataka and Bengaluru. We will take steps to ensure that the next IPL matches are held here. We will allow all matches that are available in the coming days.”
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