Cricket's governing body has rocked the establishment by confirming that IPL 2026's playoffs/finals won't take place in Bengaluru, where the Royal Challengers are the rightful host. Therefore, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will not be illuminated at any point during IPL 2026!
The playoff schedule officially announced on May 6 clearly states that the Final of the IPL, to be played on May 31, will be hosted by Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. Dharamshala and Mullanpur will be hosting the other two major matches. However, the stadium that housed the champions was surprisingly snubbed. The reason lies in a long-standing dispute about "complementary tickets."
The 15% Rule: A Line in the Sand
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, in an exclusive talk to ANI, disclosed that it was the KSCA's alleged breach of hosting guidelines that prompted this move. Normally, under IPL rules, the host association is allowed a maximum of 15% of the stadium's capacity for distribution of free tickets.
"The regulations are open to all and are the same for each association," mentioned Saikia. But, during the league phase, there was news that the KSCA wanted a share much above the limit allowed, which finally led to the board sending a letter of inquiry.
The breakdown of this staggering request reportedly included:
Government Officials: Nearly 700 tickets specifically for the Karnataka government.
Legislators: High-volume requests for local MLAs and MLCs.
Internal Distribution: Massive blocks for affiliated clubs and KSCA members.
BCCI thought this demand was unreasonable and that it would end up reducing the number of tickets available for real paying fans and sponsors. So, the board cancelled Bengaluru's hosting rights to keep the ticketing process fair.
IPL 2026 Playoff Schedule: New Frontiers
With Bengaluru out of the picture, the road to the trophy now winds through the scenic north and the bustling west:
Post a Comment