The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly decided to move the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. The decision, which has caught many by surprise, is said to be driven by logistical and infrastructural considerations. However, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has stated that it has not received any official communication regarding the shift.
No Official Word from BCCI
KSCA officials have expressed surprise over the news, emphasizing that they are yet to be formally informed by the BCCI. 'There has been no official communication from the BCCI regarding the change of venue for the IPL 2026 final. We are as much in the dark as the media and the public,' a KSCA source told reporters. The association had earlier been assured that Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium would host the final, and preparations were underway.
Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium to Host Final
According to reports, the BCCI has zeroed in on the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as the new venue for the IPL 2026 final. The stadium, which is the largest cricket stadium in the world, has previously hosted major events, including IPL finals and international matches. The board is believed to have considered factors such as capacity, facilities, and crowd management before making the call.
Reactions from Bengaluru
Fans in Bengaluru have expressed disappointment over the decision. 'We were looking forward to hosting the final. It's a big blow for cricket lovers in the city,' said a local cricket enthusiast. The KSCA has urged the BCCI to reconsider or provide a clear explanation for the shift. Meanwhile, the Ahmedabad Cricket Association has welcomed the move, stating that they are ready to host the marquee event.
BCCI's Stance
The BCCI has not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources indicate that the decision was made after a thorough review of venues and their readiness. The board is expected to make a formal announcement soon, which will clarify the reasons behind the change and outline the schedule for the IPL 2026 season.
The shift marks a significant change in plans, as Bengaluru had been initially chosen to host the final. The development also raises questions about the criteria used by the BCCI for venue selection and the level of consultation with state associations. As the cricketing world awaits further details, the KSCA remains hopeful that the board will engage in dialogue before finalizing the decision.
