The 2026 Ranji Trophy final will no longer be played in Bengaluru.
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has confirmed that the title match between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir will now be held in Hubballi.
The match will begin on February 24th.
Major work underway at Chinnaswamy Stadium
The final was originally scheduled to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, but major security and infrastructure upgrades are currently underway there.
Several gates and entry points to the stadium are being demolished and widened. This work is being carried out rapidly following the recommendations of an expert committee.
KSCA official spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya stated clearly: “KSCA had the option of hosting this prestigious final either at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, or at the KSCA Hubballi grounds. After careful evaluation and detailed consultations, the Association, in coordination with the Board of Control for Cricket in India, has taken a considered and strategic decision to stage the final at Hubballi.”
He further stated that major changes are underway at the stadium. “Several spectator gates and access points are currently being dismantled and widened, along with other critical improvement works.”
Clearly, hosting such a major match in Bengaluru was not easy at this time.
Why was the Hubballi decision made?
Vinay Mruthyunjaya also said: “In view of these ongoing developments, it would not have been feasible to ensure the high-quality match-viewing experience and spectator convenience that a marquee fixture such as the Ranji Trophy Final deserves.”
This means that a change of venue was deemed necessary to provide a better fan experience.
Furthermore, the new KSCA Managing Committee, led by Venkatesh Prasad, is in favor of hosting major matches in other cities across the state.
Mruthyunjaya added: “This initiative is aimed at promoting cricket across the state, nurturing regional fan engagement, and strengthening the sporting ecosystem beyond Bengaluru.”
The Ranji Trophy final will now be played at Hubballi, where teams from Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir will clash for the title. This decision was made for security, improved facilities, and to promote cricket in the state.
