Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has officially filed his nomination for the President's position at the Karnataka State Cricket Association. He submitted his candidature on November 13 and is considered a strong contender with backing from cricket legends Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath, both former KSCA office-bearers. Prasad aims to revive cricket in Karnataka, which he believes has declined due to excessive political interference in administration. His priority is restoring the domestic structure that thrived under previous leadership. A major focus of his agenda includes bringing cricket back to the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and ensuring Royal Challengers Bengaluru resumes playing home matches there. This commitment follows the controversy surrounding the stampede incident on June 4, which occurred after the franchise won its first IPL title. Currently, reports suggest RCB might play its 2026 season home games at Pune's MCA Stadium instead.
Commitment to Restore Chinnaswamy Stadium's Cricket Legacy
Speaking to reporters on Thursday afternoon, Prasad emphasized his roadmap to restore cricket at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, one of India's most renowned cricket venues. He assured efforts to make Royal Challengers Bengaluru play their upcoming IPL matches at Chinnaswamy, addressing issues from the June 4 stampede incident that happened after the team's maiden title victory in Ahmedabad. Prasad stressed the need to revive the stadium's lost glory. However, current reports indicate RCB may shift its 2026 IPL season home fixtures to Pune's MCA Stadium, with Maharashtra Cricket Association officials confirming ongoing discussions with the franchise about hosting their matches there.
Source: Link