Karnataka Government Decides on Closed-Door Match for Vijay Hazare Trophy

The Karnataka government has decided to hold the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Virat Kohli's team and Andhra Pradesh behind closed doors due to security concerns. Initially, there were plans to allow a limited number of spectators, but these were rejected to prevent chaos during the holiday season. The stadium has faced scrutiny following a tragic stampede earlier this year, leading to its designation as unfit for large events. Star players, including Kohli and Rishabh Pant, are set to participate in the tournament, with Pant taking on the captaincy role for the Delhi team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 13:12 IST

Match to Be Conducted Without Spectators

Fans in Bengaluru will likely miss the chance to see Virat Kohli play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Andhra Pradesh at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. This decision comes as the Karnataka government has opted to hold the match behind closed doors due to security issues. If police approval for Chinnaswamy is not granted, the BCCI's Centre of Excellence may serve as an alternative venue, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Initially, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) had plans to open two stands for the public, which could accommodate between 2,000 and 3,000 fans. However, this proposal was rejected by the government, which cited security concerns and compliance issues. The Karnataka government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, especially considering the high-profile players involved.

Venue Change Due to Player Availability

The KSCA had to shift the match venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical challenges, particularly due to the availability of star players like Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches.

In response to a request from the KSCA, the Karnataka government formed a committee that includes police, public works, and fire safety officials to inspect M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Monday. A formal report is expected to be submitted on Tuesday, likely confirming the decision to hold matches without spectators due to security concerns.

Stadium Safety Concerns Post-Stampede

The stadium was declared 'unfit for large-scale events' following a stampede during the victory celebrations for Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) first Indian Premier League (IPL) win earlier this year. This incident, which occurred in June, resulted in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. Since then, no major cricket matches have taken place at the venue, and the KSCA's Maharaja Trophy was relocated to Mysore in August.

Delhi Team Features Star Players

Prominent cricketers including Kohli, Pant, Ishant Sharma, and Navdeep Saini will represent the Delhi Senior Men's team in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for the 2025-26 domestic season, with all four players confirming their participation. Pant has been named captain of the Delhi squad, marking his return to a leadership role in domestic cricket.