Cricket is set to return to M Chinnaswamy Stadium as the Karnataka cabinet on Thursday approved the resumption of IPL matches at the iconic venue.
The decision follows recommendations from a government-appointed expert committee headed by Maheshwar Rao, Chief of the Greater Bengaluru Authority. The approval also comes after a conditional nod from the home department on January 17.
Law Minister H K Patil said the home department would issue a detailed order specifying the conditions that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) must fulfil before hosting matches.
Safety measures after stampede tragedy
The state government had earlier barred KSCA from staging matches at the stadium after 11 fans lost their lives in a stampede outside the venue on June 4, 2025, during victory celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
A committee led by Justice D’Cunha had recommended 17 safety measures, divided into short-term and long-term requirements, with March 15 set as the compliance deadline.
Sources said the Rao-led panel expressed satisfaction with the safety, security and infrastructure upgrades undertaken at the stadium.
RCB likely to host opening match
The clearance paves the way for defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru to host their IPL matches at home. The IPL is expected to begin on March 26, and traditionally, the defending champions host both the opening ceremony and the first match of the season.
Earlier in the day, Home Minister G Parameshwara held a meeting with KSCA officials, RCB representatives and members of the expert panel to review preparedness.
With enhanced safety protocols in place, the return of IPL matches to Chinnaswamy Stadium marks a significant step towards restoring confidence among cricket fans in the city.