All IPL 2026 matches will take place at Chinnaswamy Stadium, says Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has confirmed that Indian Premier League (IPL) matches will not be shifted from Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. He assured that all IPL 2026 fixtures will take place at the venue as scheduled. Shivakumar made the statement at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday, December 7, after casting his vote in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections. 

When asked about concerns over the potential relocation of major matches, including IPL games, following the recent tragedy during the RCB victory celebration, he firmly dismissed any such possibility. He also responded to queries regarding the hosting of matches for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, reiterating that the state government and authorities would ensure full preparedness and security for all major cricketing events.

"This is a matter of respect for the state of Karnataka and Bengaluru. We will take steps to ensure that the next IPL matches are held here. We will allow whatever matches are available in the coming days,” said Shivakumar as quoted by Tribune.

Shivakumar said he is a long-time cricket fan and expressed confidence in the stadium’s readiness for major tournaments. He added that the government is planning to construct a larger, alternative cricket stadium in Bengaluru to meet future infrastructural demands and ease crowd management concerns.

RCB had won the title for the first time in 17 years, drawing massive crowds to the Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, due to overcrowding, inadequate arrangements, and lack of proper notifications, the celebration turned disastrous, resulting in multiple deaths and several injuries.

"I am a member of the KSCA. When I was young, Nagaraj gave me a membership. His son is my classmate. I know many people from Brijesh Patel, including Anil Kumble and Prasanna. I voted for the ones I wanted,” said Shivakumar.

"I am a cricket fan. We will take care that the recent disaster does not happen again and ensure that the stadium's dignity remains. The stadium will be developed by managing the crowd within the legal framework. In addition, we will build a bigger stadium as an alternative," he added.

The IPL 2026 auction is scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, marking the third consecutive year the event will be conducted overseas. Unlike the mega auctions, the 2026 edition will follow the mini-auction format and is expected to be completed within a single day. Ahead of the auction, defending champions have made several notable releases. The franchise has parted ways with England all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who struggled to find consistent opportunities in the squad. 

RCB have also released South African pacer Lungi Ngidi, who featured primarily as a backup option throughout the previous season. Additionally, New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert and Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani have been let go as the team reshapes its overseas lineup for the upcoming season.