The Karnataka State Cricket Association on Thursday confirmed that the upcoming Ranji Trophy final between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir will be played in Hubballi, a move aimed at accelerating the ongoing safety enhancement works at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The Ranji Trophy final is scheduled to begin on February 24. PTI had reported on Wednesday that the marquee fixture would be shifted to the KSCA Stadium in Hubballi.
Eight-time champions Karnataka entered their first Ranji Trophy final since the 2014-15 season, advancing on the strength of a massive first-innings lead against Uttarakhand in Lucknow. In the title clash, Karnataka will face first-time finalists Jammu and Kashmir, who defeated Bengal by six wickets in the other semifinal held in Kalyani.
Confirming the decision, KSCA official spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya said the association weighed its options carefully before arriving at the call.
“KSCA had the option of hosting this prestigious final either at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, or at the KSCA Hubballi grounds. After careful evaluation and detailed consultations, the Association, in coordination with the BCCI, has taken a considered and strategic decision to stage the final at Hubballi,” he said.
Extensive infrastructure and safety enhancement works are currently underway at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in line with the recommendations of a state-appointed Expert Committee and other statutory authorities.
“Several spectator gates and access points are currently being dismantled and widened, along with other critical improvement works.
“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,” Mruthyunjaya added.
However, he described the shift as a blessing in disguise, noting that hosting a marquee match at a mofussil centre aligns with the vision of the newly elected KSCA Managing Committee under the leadership of former India cricketer and KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad.
“This initiative is aimed at promoting cricket across the State, nurturing regional fan engagement, and strengthening the sporting ecosystem beyond Bengaluru,” he said.
