VIJAY HAZARE TROPHY

Kohli, Chinnaswamy and a green signal spark Bengaluru’s wait

Cricket

Bengaluru​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ cricket can breathe a little after these gloomy months of uncertainty. The government of Karnataka has given the green signal to the matches which will be played at the Chinnaswamy stadium. This move is a comeback story for Virat Kohli in domestic cricket and is like a spark to the flame of hope for the Royal Challengers Bangalore to host the games of IPL in ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌2026.

Clearance Brings Kohli Back Into Focus

The KSCA received government approval days after Venkatesh Prasad took charge as president. Officially, they informed the BCCI about the situation and, without wasting time, began planning the matches to be played. Vijay Hazare Trophy Delhi might shift games from Alur to Chinnaswamy for lack of security.

Delhi have included Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant in their extended squad, and either player could feature in the early matches at the ground. KSCA​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ officials calling on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in Belagavi. Their talks have produced hopeful signals for the return of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌cricket.

The association also plans limited public access for high-profile games. Around 2000 to 3000 fans may enter selected stands. KSCA assured the government about phased implementation of Justice D’Cunha safety recommendations after the June stampede.

Why This Return Shapes Bengaluru Cricket

Chinnaswamy has missed elite cricket since June, hurting fans and administrators. The stadium lost Women’s World Cup matches and domestic tournaments during the freeze. A Vijay Hazare return would restore confidence and revive momentum.

For RCB, the development signals hope of a full IPL comeback. Bengaluru remains a cricket ground. Successful domestic hosting will strengthen KSCA’s case for IPL 2026 games. The focus now stays on safety execution.

Author’s Take

Cricket belongs at Chinnaswamy. Strong planning and discipline can restore trust and revive the stadium’s legacy for generations to come.

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