The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are dealing with the aftermath of a tragic event that marred their IPL title celebration. Following their victory, a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4 claimed eleven lives and injured over fifty people.
Mo Bobat, RCB’s Director of Cricket, has stated that the franchise is committed to ensuring the victims are remembered within the team’s history. He highlighted the fans’ long-standing support, emphasizing the deep sorrow felt over the lives lost.
The stampede unfolded as a massive crowd gathered to celebrate the team’s victory, exceeding the stadium’s capacity. The resulting chaos was exacerbated by insufficient crowd control and collapsing barriers. In response, RCB provided Rs 10 lakh to each victim’s family and established the “RCB Cares” fund for additional support.
A high-level inquiry, headed by Justice John Michael D’Cunha, criticized the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, finding it unsafe for major events due to inadequate infrastructure and poor management. The investigation held RCB, its partners, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) responsible, recommending disciplinary measures.
Consequently, the stadium has lost its hosting rights for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, with key matches now scheduled for the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. This event highlights the importance of prioritizing safety, and Bobat believes honoring the victims is now a crucial duty for the team.