Karnataka Cricket Association Faces Challenges with Match Relocation and Hosting Rights

BCCI Moves Matches from Bengaluru to Rajkot

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is set to experience significant setbacks as the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is expected to miss out on hosting major matches in the near future. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to shift the upcoming three-match one-day series between India 'A' and South Africa 'A' from Bengaluru to Rajkot.

"The South Africa Men’s A Team will face India A in two multi-day matches and three one-day games, starting October 30, 2025. While the two multi-day matches will continue to be held at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, the three one-day games have been moved from M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot."

Although the BCCI has not provided a specific reason for this relocation, there are speculations suggesting that it may be a punitive measure against the KSCA following the unfortunate stampede incident during the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) victory parade.

Prior to the one-day series, both teams will engage in two multi-day red-ball matches, which will still take place at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, located on the outskirts of Bengaluru, near the airport.

Concerns Over Women's World Cup Hosting Rights

The backlash against the KSCA is expected to persist. Reports indicate that both the BCCI and the International Cricket Council (ICC) are reevaluating the feasibility of hosting the ICC Women’s World Cup matches in Bengaluru, scheduled for the September to November timeframe. The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is one of five venues in India shortlisted for this prestigious tournament. Bengaluru is set to host the tournament opener featuring India on September 30, one semifinal on October 30, and the final on November 2, unless Pakistan qualifies, which could lead to the final being moved to Colombo.

Sources indicate that the Karnataka State Cricket Association may struggle to host significant cricket events in the foreseeable future. The immediate issue at hand is the urgent need for extensive repairs to the stadium, as the chaos from the recent incident resulted in substantial damage to the infrastructure, including broken railings, compromised compound walls, staircases, and sanitation facilities.