M Chinnaswamy will host RCB in IPL 2026, Virat Kohli to return to stadium during Vijay Hazare Trophy

M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to re-enter the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s hosting plans after Karnataka State Cricket Association president Venkatesh Prasad received official clearance from the state government to stage matches at the venue. The approval comes just a week after Prasad’s election, with the BCCI already informed of the latest developments.

The decision could have immediate on-field implications, including the possibility of Virat Kohli returning to play at his home ground. KSCA is preparing to



shift Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures involving Delhi from Alur to Chinnaswamy due to security and logistical concerns. Kohli and Rishabh Pant are both named in an expanded Delhi squad and may feature in the first three matches of the tournament.

Prasad, along with KSCA vice-president Sujith Somasunder, met chief minister Siddharamaiah, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar and senior officials in Belagavi earlier this week during the state assembly session. The discussions reportedly paved the way for government approval.