Ranji Trophy Final moves to Hubballi on February 24 because Bengaluru stadium is closed for repairs

This is the first time Jammu & Kashmir has reached the final in 67 years. The match moves to Hubballi because the Bengaluru stadium has been closed for upgrades since last June.
By Newsroom | Cricket, Karnataka |

The final match of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season is scheduled to take place in Hubballi, Karnataka, on February 24. The decision to host the prestigious cricket final in Hubballi was made by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) after careful consideration of venue availability and a broader strategy to promote cricket across the state. This marks a significant occasion for Hubballi, bringing a premier domestic cricket event to the region.

Key Developments and Decision-Making

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) confirmed Hubballi as the venue for the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final, which will be contested between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir. This announcement comes after Karnataka secured their spot in the final following a dominant semi-final performance, and Jammu & Kashmir made history by reaching their first-ever Ranji Trophy final.

Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final set for Hubballi as KSCA confirms venue and date - 1

The decision to select Hubballi over the usual venue, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, was influenced by several factors:

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  • Stadium Redevelopment in Bengaluru: The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is undergoing significant redevelopment and upgrades, making it unsuitable for hosting a marquee event of this scale. Reports indicate ongoing structural and security improvements.

  • KSCA's Vision for Decentralization: The KSCA has expressed a commitment to promoting cricket beyond Bengaluru, aiming to nurture regional fan engagement and strengthen the sporting ecosystem across the state.

  • Consultation with BCCI: The final venue selection was made by the KSCA in consultation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Match Details and Participants

  • Teams: Karnataka vs. Jammu & Kashmir

  • Date: February 24, 2025-26 season

  • Venue: KSCA Cricket Stadium, Hubballi

Evidence Analysis

Multiple news outlets corroborate the venue and date for the Ranji Trophy final. Official statements from the KSCA and consultations with the BCCI appear to be the primary sources for these confirmations.

Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final set for Hubballi as KSCA confirms venue and date - 2

"Taking into account both the stadium redevelopment in Bengaluru and KSCA’s broader vision, the Association, in consultation with the BCCI, finalised Hubballi as the host city." - Zee News India

"The Ranji Trophy 2025/26 final between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir will be staged at the KSCA Cricket Stadium in Hubballi from February 24, said the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday." - Free Press Journal

Hubballi's Historic Opportunity

The selection of Hubballi is viewed as an initiative to foster cricket across Karnataka. The KSCA anticipates strong support from local fans.

"KSCA expressed confidence that cricket fans from the Hubballi-Dharwad region and neighbouring districts will warmly welcome the opportunity to witness a premier domestic final, promising strong public support and a memorable contest." - Zee News India

This move aligns with the stated vision of KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad to elevate cricket infrastructure in areas beyond major urban centers.

Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final set for Hubballi as KSCA confirms venue and date - 3

Bengaluru's Stadium Challenges

The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium's unavailability is a key driver for the venue change. Despite securing necessary clearances, the ongoing upgrades have rendered it not ready for immediate use for high-level matches.

"The M Chinnaswamy Stadium will not host top-flight cricket just yet, despite securing all necessary state government clearances, after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday allotted the Ranji Trophy final, starting February 24, to Hubballi instead." - ESPNcricinfo

The stadium has been sidelined for major matches since June 4th of the previous year due to these upgrades.

Read More: Karnataka Reaches Ranji Trophy Final After 11 Years Due to Semifinal Draw

Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final set for Hubballi as KSCA confirms venue and date - 4

Jammu & Kashmir's Maiden Final

This Ranji Trophy final marks a significant milestone for Jammu & Kashmir, who have reached the title match for the first time in their 67-year history in the tournament. Their journey to the final involved historic wins in the semi-final stages.

"Jammu & Kashmir reached their maiden Ranji Trophy final, 67 years after their first appearance in the tournament." - Ranjitrophy.com.in

Expert Insights and Statements

The decision to host the final in Hubballi has been framed as a strategic move by the KSCA.

"This initiative is aimed at promoting cricket across the State, nurturing regional fan engagement, and strengthening the sporting ecosystem beyond Bengaluru,” said the KSCA in its statement. - Free Press Journal

This approach is seen as a step towards decentralizing top-tier cricket events.

Conclusion and Implications

The 2025-26 Ranji Trophy final will be held in Hubballi on February 24, featuring Karnataka against Jammu & Kashmir. The relocation from Bengaluru is due to ongoing upgrades at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. This decision underscores the KSCA's strategy to promote cricket across different regions of Karnataka and enhance fan engagement outside the state capital. The event promises to be a memorable occasion, especially for Jammu & Kashmir, marking their historic first appearance in a Ranji Trophy final.

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where will the Ranji Trophy final be played on February 24?
The final match will take place at the KSCA Cricket Stadium in Hubballi. The Karnataka State Cricket Association chose this venue to bring big matches to more people across the state.
Q: Why is the Ranji Trophy final not at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru?
The stadium in Bengaluru is undergoing major building work and safety upgrades. It has not hosted a big match since June 4th and is not ready for the final yet.
Q: Which teams are playing in the Ranji Trophy final in Hubballi?
The final match is between the Karnataka team and the Jammu & Kashmir team. Karnataka won their semi-final easily to reach this stage.
Q: Why is this match important for the Jammu & Kashmir cricket team?
This is the first time in 67 years that Jammu & Kashmir has reached the final of the Ranji Trophy. It is a historic moment for their players and fans.
Q: What is the reason for moving the match to Hubballi instead of a bigger city?
The cricket board wants to help cricket grow in areas outside of Bengaluru. They believe fans in Hubballi and nearby towns will give the players a lot of support.