The final match of the Ranji Trophy competition, scheduled to begin on February 24, has been moved from Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to the KSCA Hubballi Stadium in Hubballi. This decision by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) aims to accelerate ongoing safety and infrastructure upgrade work at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The final will feature Karnataka against Jammu and Kashmir, with the latter reaching this stage for the first time in their history.
Stadium Upgrades Prompt Venue Change
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is currently undergoing extensive infrastructure and safety enhancement works. These upgrades are being carried out based on recommendations from a state-appointed expert committee and other authorities.
The progress of these essential safety and infrastructure improvements is cited as the primary reason for moving the final.
Officials stated that hosting the final in Hubballi would allow these upgrade works at the Bengaluru venue to progress faster.
Promoting Cricket Beyond Bengaluru
Beyond the practical considerations of stadium upgrades, the KSCA also highlighted a broader vision for cricket development.
Hosting the final in Hubballi aligns with the association's goal to promote cricket across different regions of Karnataka.
This move supports the idea of expanding the reach of major cricketing events beyond the state capital.
Jammu and Kashmir's Historic Final Appearance
The upcoming final marks a significant milestone for the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team.
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This is the first time in the 67-year history of the tournament that Jammu and Kashmir has reached the Ranji Trophy final.
Their qualification followed a historic performance, reaching the final for the first time.
| Stadium | City | Reason for Venue Change |
|---|---|---|
| M. Chinnaswamy | Bengaluru | Undergoing safety and infrastructure upgrade works |
| KSCA Hubballi | Hubballi | Chosen to host the final due to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium's status |
Expert Analysis
According to multiple reports, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) confirmed the venue shift on Thursday. Officials have stated that the decision was made to further speed up the ongoing safety enhancement works at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. This work is described as extensive and in line with recommendations from expert committees and statutory bodies. While the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has secured necessary state government clearances, the ongoing works have rendered it unavailable for hosting the high-profile final.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Ranji Trophy final between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir will now take place at the KSCA Hubballi Stadium. This decision by the KSCA is attributed to two main factors: the need to expedite safety and infrastructure upgrades at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, and a strategic initiative to promote cricket in other areas of the state. Jammu and Kashmir's historic qualification for the final adds a unique dimension to this championship match. Further updates regarding match arrangements and preparations at the Hubballi venue are expected.
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Timesnownews.com: EXPLAINED: Why Ranji Trophy 2025/26 Final Venue Was Moved Out Of Chinnaswamy Stadium - Summary focused on the historical achievement of J&K and the venue shift.
Times of India: Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium not to host Ranji Trophy final; title clash heads to Hubballi - here's why | Cricket News - Summary highlights the confirmation of the venue shift and the reason for upgrades.
Rediff.com: Why Ranji Trophy Final Won't Be Played At Chinnaswamy - Summary reiterates the KSCA's confirmation and the dual reasons of safety work and promoting regional cricket.
News18.com: Why Ranji Trophy Final Is Not At Chinnaswamy? Hubballi Decided After 'Strategic Decision To…' - Summary mentions the commencement date and the dual reasons for the move.
ESPNcricinfo.com: Hubballi to host Ranji final; Chinnaswamy not yet ready - Summary indicates the KSCA had the option of hosting in Bengaluru or Hubballi and mentions J&K's historic entry.
India Today: Ranji final at Hubballi due to safety works at Chinnaswamy: Karnataka Association - Summary explicitly states the reason is to fast-track ongoing safety upgrade work.
Sportstar.thehindu.com: Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final likely to be played in Hubbali - Summary mentions Hubballi as the front-runner and the BCCI's Centre of Excellence as another possibility, while noting Karnataka's points in the tournament.
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