IPL 2026 News: The Karnataka government finally lifted the curtains on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, granting formal approval to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to host matches at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
This decision comes after months of anticipation, following a tragic stampede incident during RCB's maiden title win celebrations.
The stadium is set to host five RCB home games, including the season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28, as well as potential playoff fixtures.
The 19th edition of the world's biggest T20 league starts on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the tournament opener, as per the schedule.
The Karnataka government's formal permission was preceded by a crucial meeting, chaired by state Home Minister Parameshwar, which brought together the Expert Committee, KSCA, RCB, and event management firm DNA to iron out concerns.
"During the meeting, the Expert Committee presented its report outlining the preparedness and compliance measures undertaken at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium," KSCA's official spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya informed in a statement.
"Based on the recommendations of the Expert Committee and after reviewing the arrangements in detail, the Hon'ble Home Minister has formally accorded approval for the conduct of the upcoming IPL matches at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru,” he added.
"The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) places on record its sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Home Minister, Dr. G. Parameshwar, for his leadership, guidance and support in facilitating this approval," he added.
The M Chinnaswamy Stadium is also pencilled to host the RCB Unboxing event as well as the tournament's opening ceremony.
RCB had earlier declared that it would play five of its seven home games in Bengaluru, while two would be played at Raipur's Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium.
"Our special thanks are also due to Shri Sreemant Kumar Singh, Member Secretary of the Expert Committee and Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru, for his proactive coordination and for ensuring that all safety, security and operational aspects were comprehensively evaluated," the KSCA release said.
ALSO READ: IPL 2026: Virat Kohli Snubs Rohit Sharma, Picks THIS Player As Best T20 Opener
"KSCA further expresses its sincere appreciation to all the distinguished members of the Expert Committee and the officials associated with the Expert Committee and its sub-committees, whose careful assessment and constructive recommendations have been instrumental in enabling this important decision."