IPL 2026: Final shifted from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad sparks massive backlash as fans troll BCCI decision

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs, confirming that the final will be held on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, widely regarded as the largest cricket stadium in the world. The venue is set to host a high-stakes clash to crown the new champions.

Originally, Bengaluru was slated to host the final. However, due to certain requirements imposed by local authorities that did not align with BCCI protocols, the board decided to shift the summit clash to Ahmedabad. Interestingly, the 2025 final was also played at the same venue, making this the fourth time in the last five years that Ahmedabad will host the IPL final.

The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), had ended their 18-year title drought by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2025 final. Following last year’s tragic incident during RCB’s victory celebrations, where several lives were lost, authorities had initially planned tighter governance measures at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, with the venue expected to host a Qualifier and the Final in 2026.

IPL playoffs schedule out, Ahmedabad to host final

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IPL playoffs schedule out, Ahmedabad to host final

However, the late change has sparked backlash among fans and experts, many of whom are frustrated with the repeated hosting of IPL finals in Ahmedabad. Critics argue that rotating venues more fairly would better reflect the league’s national appeal, while supporters of the move point to Ahmedabad’s capacity and experience in handling high-profile matches.

Here are some of the reactions on X after Bengaluru lost hosting rights for the IPL 2026 final: