RCB Returns to M Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 Matches
Exciting News for RCB Fans
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 3: Venkatesh Prasad, the president of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), expressed his delight over the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), returning to their home ground, M Chinnaswamy Stadium, for the upcoming IPL season. He described this moment as "more significant than my five-wicket haul against England at Lord's."
RCB is set to play five home matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during the 2026 IPL season. There had been concerns regarding their home games due to a tragic incident following the team's first IPL victory last year, which led to the venue missing out on hosting matches for the Maharaja Trophy and the ICC Women’s World Cup. Additionally, Bengaluru was not allocated any fixtures for the ongoing T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
This positive development follows extensive efforts and collaboration among various authorities aimed at ensuring the return of matches to the fans' beloved venue. The last two home games of RCB's IPL 2026 season will take place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, as previously agreed.
In light of this announcement, Venkatesh Prasad remarked, "The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have confirmed their participation in this year's IPL 2026 in Bengaluru... This is a monumental achievement for me, surpassing my five-wicket haul at Lord's, which is a significant milestone for bowlers. It reflects the collective effort of our Managing Committee to accomplish this in under three months."
RCB expressed heartfelt thanks to the Government of Karnataka, the KSCA, and the Karnataka Police for their steadfast support and cooperation in facilitating the matches in Bengaluru. Their joint efforts to enhance infrastructure and safety measures have made it possible for the defending champions to host most of their home games at their iconic ground.
Rajesh Menon, CEO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, stated, "M Chinnaswamy Stadium is not just our home; it embodies our team's spirit. The enthusiasm our fans bring to Bengaluru has always motivated our players, inspiring them throughout the game. Our supporters have been unwavering, and they deserve to witness their team play at home."
"After thorough discussions and obtaining the necessary permissions, we are thrilled to announce that RCB will host five matches in Bengaluru. We extend our gratitude to the Government of Karnataka, the KSCA, and the Karnataka Police for their invaluable support in making this happen," Menon added.