Major development amid IPL 2026: Date for Knight Riders first match in their own ground reveals

A proud moment for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fans amid the ongoing IPL 2026 season. As the first franchise across the world, the franchise is all set to have its own cricket ground. The date for the Knight Riders’ first match on their own ground has also been set.

The initiative has taken into account keeping an eye on the future. Knight Riders fans across social media platforms welcome the decision by the franchise. The Los Angeles Knight Riders have shared multiple photos, depicting the special moment, and some notes as well, from their official social media profiles.

Official announcement made by the LA Knight Riders

“Today, we officially broke ground on the Knight Riders Cricket Ground, marking a historic milestone for sports in Southern California and a multi-million dollar commitment to the future of the game,” the LA Knight Riders (LAKR) said on April 23.

“From the turning of the first soil to the shared vision of our founders, local leaders, and players, the energy at Fairplex was undeniable. This isn't just a construction site; it’s the foundation of a world-class legacy that will welcome fans from across the globe,” the official statement further reads.

Why Knight Riders choose to setup new ground there?

The franchise has spotted Los Angeles as an important market. So, to utilize it, the franchise tied up with Fairplex in a long-term move, which will benefit the Knight Riders as well as the nation in the sports sector. This year, in March, LAKR shared a video to announce their new initiative formally. The franchise announced the Knight Riders Cricket Field at Fairplex in Pomona as their official home for 2026.

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“Over the years, the Knight Riders have grown into a truly global family, and every new milestone is special for us. Seeing the Los Angeles Knight Riders have a home of their own is incredibly exciting. The USA is a great sporting market with passionate fans, and we hope this field becomes a place where people come together to celebrate the game and support the team,” Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan said.

“Los Angeles is one of the world’s most dynamic sports markets and an important home for the Knight Riders brand. Establishing the Knight Riders Cricket Field in partnership with Fairplex is a major milestone for our franchise, and we look forward to building the sport in this region,” Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore stated.

The crowd capacity will increase gradually

Media reports suggested that, at the initial stage of the development, the crowd capacity of the stadium can be around 5,000. Later, the capacity will be increased gradually.

Field construction is expected to be completed in 2027. The cricket stadium will initially hold up to 5,000 spectators and expand to 8,500 in 2027 and reach 15,000 by 2028. The field will also have multipurpose uses for concerts, community events, and other sports, according to team officials, the San Gabriel Valley Tribune claimed in their report.

If things go according to plan, then LAKR can play their first match on their own ground on 1^st July.