Cricket

Duleep Trophy final could move from Bengaluru CoE, with potential for spectator attendance.

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 19, 2026, 12:57 IST

Cricket News: Bengaluru: The final of the Duleep Trophy is likely to shift from the BCCI Centre of Excellence to M Ch.

Duleep Trophy final could move from Bengaluru CoE, with potential for spectator attendance.

Bengaluru: The final of the Duleep Trophy is likely to be relocated from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) on the outskirts of Bengaluru to either the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the city or the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This change is being considered to allow fans to attend the match, which is set to take place from September 6 to 10.

The inter-zonal tournament is scheduled to kick off on August 23, featuring six competing teams. While the quarterfinals and semifinals will be hosted at the CoE, the final's original venue is under review due to its current policy of holding matches without spectators. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed this issue during a recent visit to the CoE, stating, “We will definitely look into the aspect of hosting the match with spectators; we still have time.”

Potential Venue Changes

In light of the desire to accommodate fans, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) was approached earlier this week and expressed willingness to host the final. However, a significant concern arises from a court ruling following a stampede incident outside the stadium last year. This ruling imposes strict protocols on the KSCA if the number of spectators exceeds 5,000, which could complicate plans for a larger audience.

Consequently, the BCCI has also reached out to the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) as part of its ongoing efforts to secure a venue that can safely host spectators. The board is keen on ensuring that the final can be enjoyed by fans, reflecting a broader commitment to enhancing the spectator experience in domestic cricket.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament approaches, the BCCI's decision regarding the final venue will be closely watched by fans and stakeholders alike. The organization is weighing its options carefully, balancing the need for safety with the desire to bring live cricket back to the stands. With the tournament set to begin soon, clarity on the final's location is expected in the coming days.

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