RCB made this stadium its new home ground for IPL 2026, will play 5 matches in Bengaluru also

IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) announced on Tuesday that their team will play five of its seven home matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. This decision is very important for the franchise as this is their main home ground.

Last year, RCB won the IPL title, but during the victory celebrations, 11 people died in a stampede outside the stadium. Since then no major cricket match took place here. Now after strengthening the security and other arrangements, the team is returning.

Approval received after long efforts

RCB worked closely with the Karnataka government, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the police for several months. This decision was taken after completing all the necessary permissions and security arrangements. The franchise has thanked all these parties.

The Karnataka government had already approved the stadium for IPL and international matches, but the final decision was with RCB. Now the fans of the team will be able to watch their favorite team on their home ground.

CEO Rajesh Menon’s statement

RCB CEO Rajesh Menon said, “M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is not just a ground, it is the identity of our team. The energy of Bengaluru fans inspires our players in every match. Our fans have always supported us and they deserve to see their team play on their home ground.” He further said that after all the processes are completed, five matches will be held in Bengaluru.

The remaining two matches will be held in Raipur

The remaining two home matches of RCB will be played at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur. This will be as per the pre-arranged agreement. The franchisee said that this has been possible due to collective efforts to improve security and infrastructure.

Probability of opening match

The first match of IPL 2026 is likely to be held on March 28 at Chinnaswamy Stadium. Current champion RCB will play the inaugural match of this season. The name of the opponent will be known when the BCCI releases the schedule, which is coming later this week. Crores of fans of Bengaluru are happy with this decision of RCB.