Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar has addressed the controversy surrounding the relocation of the IPL 2026 final. He clarified that the decision was based on infrastructure and capacity, not VIP ticket demands by local politicians. Shivakumar emphasized the larger stadium in Ahmedabad as the primary factor influencing the move. Reports of excessive demands from Bengaluru authorities were dismissed, with the IPL Governing Council confirming the relocation was due to logistical considerations. This decision means defending champions RCB will not have a home final for the second year in a row. The playoffs will now take place at three venues – HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, MYS Stadium in New Chandigarh for the Eliminator and Qualifier 2, and the final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 31, 2026. The IPL 2026 Playoffs schedule has been adjusted accordingly to accommodate this change.
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