Sunil Gavaskar Supports BCCI Decision to Move IPL 2026 Final to Ahmedabad
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A Major Shift in the IPL Landscape
The cricketing world was recently sent into a flurry of debate following the BCCI’s decision to move the highly anticipated IPL 2026 final and playoff matches away from the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. While the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, were initially expected to host the grand finale on May 31, 2026, the Indian cricket board opted for a drastic change, relocating the festivities to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Gavaskar Stands Behind the Board
Former Indian batting icon and esteemed cricket analyst Sunil Gavaskar has thrown his weight behind the BCCI’s directive. Known for his candid and often sharp observations on the state of the game, Gavaskar believes that moving the matches to the world’s largest cricket stadium is a pragmatic move that serves the broader interests of the sport.
Speaking during the Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Punjab Kings clash at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Gavaskar explained his stance: “I think it is the correct decision as Ahmedabad has the biggest stadium in the world and the gate money will go to the BCCI. In the league matches, the gate money goes to the home franchises.” This perspective highlights the commercial reality of modern cricket, where venue capacity directly correlates with the financial health of the organizing body.
Why Was Bengaluru Stripped of Hosting Rights?
The sudden nature of the announcement left many surprised. While the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) expressed that they were prepared to host the fixtures, reports suggest a rift between the BCCI and local authorities. Rumors circulated that the governing body was dissatisfied with the ticket demands made by local politicians in Karnataka. To avoid potential administrative hurdles and ensure a smooth event, the board opted for the neutral, high-capacity territory of Ahmedabad.
DK Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, publicly refuted claims that politician-led ticket demands were the primary driver of the shift. Instead, he suggested that the sheer size of the Narendra Modi Stadium and the ability to accommodate a larger influx of fans were the logical reasons for the BCCI’s preference.
The Revised IPL 2026 Playoff Schedule
The relocation has forced a complete restructuring of the tournament’s business end. The final, which would have been a historic night in Bengaluru, will now serve as the marquee event at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Here is the updated breakdown for the IPL 2026 playoffs:
- Qualifier 1: May 26 – HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala
- Eliminator: May 27 – New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh
- Qualifier 2: May 29 – New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh
- Final: May 31 – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Precedent and Context
This is not the first time the BCCI has had to deviate from the traditional hosting format. In previous years, unforeseen circumstances—ranging from weather challenges to regional tensions—have necessitated last-minute venue changes. By keeping the final in a venue with massive seating capacity, the board ensures that the spectacle of the IPL remains maximized for both the live audience and the broadcasting partners.
While fans in Bengaluru may feel short-changed, Gavaskar’s endorsement underscores that in the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League, infrastructure and revenue optimization often take precedence. As the caravan moves to Dharamshala, New Chandigarh, and finally Ahmedabad, the focus now shifts back to the action on the pitch as the teams battle for supremacy in the final leg of the 2026 season.
