Bengaluru, February 19 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 decision taken by the officials to further expedite the ongoing safety enhancement work at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The Ranji Trophy final will start on February 24, and
"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 BCCI, has taken a considered and strategic decision to stage the final at Hubballi," said Vinay Mruthyunjaya, the KSCA official spokesperson.
Extensive infrastructure and safety enhancement work has been underway at Chinnaswamy, in line with the recommendations of the 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."
"Given 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," said Mruthyunjaya.
However, Mruthyunjaya said that this was a blessing in disguise because a marquee match can be staged at a smaller center in the state, aligning 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 added.
