The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has shifted all Vijay Hazare Trophy matches scheduled in Bengaluru away from the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The decision comes just ahead of the tournament’s opening fixture, following instructions from the Karnataka state home ministry citing security concerns.
As a result, all matches will now be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), located on the outskirts of the city, and will take place behind closed doors with no spectators allowed.
Impact on High-Profile Players and Fixtures
The venue shift directly affects the opening match between Delhi and Andhra, which features star players Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. The presence of such high-profile cricketers had already led to heightened security planning, which ultimately became a key factor in moving the matches away from the city center.
Both teams were informed of the change before their scheduled training sessions, which are now set to take place at the CoE instead of Chinnaswamy.
Second Venue Change in a Short Span
This is the second venue shift in less than two weeks for Vijay Hazare Trophy matches in Bengaluru:
- Matches involving Kohli and Pant were first moved from Alur grounds to Chinnaswamy
- Now, all Bengaluru matches have been relocated from Chinnaswamy to the CoE
The repeated changes highlight the logistical and security challenges associated with hosting matches involving top national players during a busy holiday period.
Why Chinnaswamy Was Ruled Out
Government Concerns
The Karnataka government raised concerns over:
- Crowd management during the holiday season
- Compliance with safety and security norms
- Potential congestion and public disorder in central Bengaluru
A government-appointed committee, including officials from police, public works, and fire safety departments, inspected the stadium and submitted its findings before the final decision was taken.
Safety Status of the Venue
The Chinnaswamy Stadium has been under scrutiny in recent times, with authorities flagging structural and safety issues related to hosting large gatherings. While the KSCA had explored the possibility of opening limited seating (around 2,000–3,000 spectators), the proposal did not receive approval.
See Also: Pat Cummins Ruled Out of Final Ashes Tests
Matches to Be Played Behind Closed Doors
The KSCA has been directed to ensure that:
- All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches in Bengaluru are spectator-free
- Strong police presence is maintained around the CoE, especially near the Aerospace Park area
The CoE has prior experience hosting matches behind closed doors, including domestic tournaments and international ‘A’ fixtures, making it a practical alternative under the circumstances.
Comparison: Chinnaswamy vs BCCI Centre of Excellence
| Aspect | Chinnaswamy Stadium | BCCI Centre of Excellence |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Central Bengaluru | Outskirts of Bengaluru |
| Spectators | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Capacity | 35,000+ | Training-focused facility |
| Security Risk | High | Controlled |
| Match Experience | Iconic, fan-driven | Closed, professional setup |
What This Means Going Forward
For players, the change ensures uninterrupted preparation and match play in a secure environment. For fans, however, it means missing the chance to watch top stars in action at one of India’s most famous cricket venues.
For the KSCA, this move underlines a cautious approach as it continues discussions with the government on the future of top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy, including long-term compliance and safety upgrades.
Conclusion
The decision to move Vijay Hazare Trophy matches away from Chinnaswamy Stadium marks a significant moment for Bengaluru cricket. While security and safety remain the top priority, the shift also reflects the evolving challenges of hosting high-profile domestic matches in busy urban centers. Until concerns are fully addressed, the BCCI Centre of Excellence will serve as Bengaluru’s temporary home for elite domestic cricket.
