The BCCI is likely to relocate the 2026-27 Duleep Trophy final to either Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium or Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium to allow spectators to attend, TOI reported on Wednesday (August 19).
The initial rounds (quarterfinals and semifinals) of the inter-zonal tournament featuring six teams will proceed as planned behind closed doors at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) on the outskirts of Bengaluru from August 23 to September 2.
Scheduled for September 6-10, the title clash was initially slotted for the CoE. However, the Indian board is now actively exploring options so fans can experience the match live.
Speaking to media during his recent visit to CoE, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia assured that the board will re-evaluate the venue constraints specifically for the Duleep Trophy final.
“We will definitely appreciate your suggestions on whether the final can be hosted in a stadium or not. We still have time. We'll look into that aspect. If required, we'll do that,” Saikia told reporters.
According to the report, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is ready to host the summit clash, but local court protocols triggered by past crowd management issues restrict extensive spectator arrangements if crowds exceed 5,000.
Due to the restrictions in Bengaluru, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has reportedly been sounded out by the board to potentially host the game with full spectator access.
(With TOI Inputs)
