In the opening match of IPL 2026 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28, 11 seats were intentionally left empty to honor the 11 fans who died in a stampede during RCB’s victory parade last year. Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad announced that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) would keep these seats vacant for all IPL and international matches as a mark of respect.
RCB players wore number 11 on their jerseys and black armbands in remembrance of the fans. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara mentioned the memorial installed at the stadium for the victims. The government had granted clearance for IPL matches at the stadium after safety upgrades were completed. Parameshwara assured that necessary precautions had been taken to ensure fan safety. The police, KSCA, and RCB collaborated to prevent any similar incidents in the future.
Overall, the gesture of leaving 11 seats empty served as a poignant tribute to the lives lost and showcased unity and respect within the cricketing community.
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