Finally, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah came forward and broke the silence about the stampede incident outside M. Chinnaswamy on June 4. In a shocking statement, K'taka CM said that he became aware of the tragic incident only at 5:45 PM on June 4.

The descriptions of the incident, where about 11 deaths had occurred and over 50 people were injured, have now circulated widely. The investigation is underway, and for now, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is under immense pressure. But the citizens of India and the state were waiting for the reaction from the Chief Minister.

Siddaramaiah said in his statement, "I came to know that deaths happened at 5.45 pm. At 3.50 pm, deaths were reported at the hospital, but I came to know about it only at 5.45 pm. Until that point, I was not aware of deaths taking place due to the stampede. I have taken action against whoever has done wrong." Due to the unorganized and chaotic gathering in the road, near the state assembly, the Vidhana Soudha security officer M.N. Kariasavana raised his concerns in a written format. 

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Warning was issued early

According to media reports, Kariasavana said in a letter to Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms Secretary G. Satyavanthi, "Lakhs of security personnel are supposed to come to Vidhana Soudha. Since there is a shortage of security personnel, making security arrangements will be difficult. The incident happened near the cricket stadium. I have no connection with that. It should not have happened. Neither the deputy chief minister… (then he corrected himself, saying), no, neither the home minister nor I know about it (planning meetings)."

The government of Karnataka has increased the compensation for the victims of the stampede from INR 10 lakh to INR 25 lakh. The CM vowed to stand by the families of the deceased. 

Karnataka vs Vidarbha: Key Details for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 Final

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 has reached its finishing stage after an exciting series of matches. The much anticipated final will see Karnataka face Vidarbha in a battle for the title. Here's everything you need to know about the big match, including the schedule, venue, and live streaming details.

In their semi-final clash, Vidarbha delivered a dominant performance against Maharashtra. Karun Nair was the star of the match, smashing an incredible 88 runs off just 44 balls, featuring 9 fours and 5 sixes. His explosive innings helped Vidarbha post a massive total of 380 runs. Maharashtra, in response, managed only 311 runs, falling short of the target. Nair's outstanding form in the tournament has been a game-changer for Vidarbha, with 752 runs to his name so far, making him one of the key reasons for the team’s success.

Karnataka, on the other hand, secured their spot in the final with an impressive victory over Haryana. This marks Karnataka’s fifth appearance in a Vijay Hazare Trophy final, showcasing their consistent performance throughout the tournament.  

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VHT Final Match Details:

When and Where to Watch KAR vs VID:

Reliance Stadium Pitch Report:

Official Umpires for Match:

KAR vs VID Squads:

Jofra Archer, the England fast bowler, showcased his skills as he bowled for a Karnataka team during a practice match against Sussex at the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Friday, March 15.

Archer’s Training Camp in India

Archer arrived in India as part of a 10-day training camp for his County Championship side, Sussex, in Bengaluru. The camp aimed to prepare the team for the upcoming County season, with Lancashire also participating in a similar training program in Bengaluru.

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Although Archer did not bowl on the opening day of the tour game, he joined the Karnataka team as a substitute on Friday. Displaying his talent, Archer picked up two wickets in the morning session, including a stump-breaker delivery, showcasing his rhythm and skill.

Sussex Cricket Club Tweeted:

Jofra Archer is back in action! The speedster makes an impactful return during a practice match for a Karnataka team against Sussex in Bengaluru. Picking up two wickets, including a stump-breaker, Archer showed he’s in fine form. Great to see him back on the field!

After seeing the video, cricket fans started speculating that Jofra would be featured for RCB in the upcoming IPL season.

Future Prospects of Archer

Archer has been recovering from a stress fracture in his right elbow, which required surgery following the IPL 2023 season, where he represented the Mumbai Indians. Due to the recurrence of the injury, Archer opted out of IPL 2024, focusing on his rehabilitation and workload management under the guidance of the England and Wales Cricket Board.