IPL 2026: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium set for massive renovation as KSCA plans 20000-seat expansion

Two games have taken place at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, hosted by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for the opening encounter and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the second fixture, and won both. 

The ground was closed for nearly a year after the stampede case took place during the celebration of the RCB franchise, when they won the title in 2025 under the leadership of Rajat Patidar as they beat the Punjab Kings. 11 people died in that incident, which saw the ground being banned from hosting any domestic game for a period.

KSCA plans massive renovation of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium

A few days ago, the Karnataka State Cricket Association officials, led by president Venkatesh Prasad, met the Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, to propose an expansion plan for the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as the aim is to increase the capacity, which stands at around 34000 spectators.

“We haven’t set a timeline for completing the renovation because it’s a lengthy process. We have to invite bids and hold multiple meetings to secure various approvals. It will take considerable time. But we are determined to transform the stadium, hopefully during my tenure.” Prasad expressed.

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The ground, located in the heart of Bengaluru, specifically in Shivaji Nagar, near Cubbon Park and MG Road, is in the central business district. The plan is massive and great for the fans, as it failed to get the chance to host the T20 World Cup 2026 games.

Venkatesh Prasad hopes for early start to stadium revamp

On April 05, the Karnataka association set the renovation process in motion by issuing an Expression of Interest advertisement. The scope of work includes architectural and structural design, fan experience enhancement, crowd flow planning, and parking, among other aspects.

While Prasad hasn’t confirmed a timeline for the completion, he has been optimistic about the project being carried out during his tenure.

“It’s not that I’ve come into office now and want to make changes immediately. I’ve been thinking about this for the last 10 years. Even when I was pursuing my MBA in International Sports Management, I kept coming back to one thing -- the spectators. They are our biggest stakeholders, yet they have little say. The game is what it is because of them, and the least we can do is provide the best possible match experience.” Prasad informed.

“The stadium is, of course, quite old. With due respect to those who built it, it needs to evolve. It was constructed in the 1970s with perhaps a vision for the next 50 years. But Bengaluru has grown beyond anyone’s imagination, so everything must evolve accordingly.” The former pacer addressed.