Venkatesh Prasad Vows to Revive Chinnaswamy After Tragic Stampede!

In a passionate bid to restore the "lost glory" of Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad has announced his panel’s manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections, set for October or November 2025. The iconic venue, which has hosted memorable cricketing moments for over 50 years, has been sidelined since a tragic stampede on June 4, 2025, claimed 11 Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans’ lives, halting matches and jeopardizing its hosting of the ICC Women’s World Cup in October.

Speaking at a press conference on August 20, 2025, Prasad emphasized proactive collaboration with the state government to resume matches swiftly, stating, “We have to ensure that matches are played in Chinnaswamy Stadium as soon as possible.”

Prasad, joined by fellow panelist Vinay Mruthyunjaya and supported by former India women’s captain Shanta Rangaswamy, outlined ambitious plans to transform Chinnaswamy into a future-ready smart stadium with cutting-edge facilities and increase its capacity from 35,000 to 50,000, prioritizing fan safety.

The manifesto also includes developing a world-class stadium in Mysuru and reviving structured leagues for both men’s and women’s cricket in Karnataka, addressing the recent lack of domestic tournaments. “It’s not just about international matches; we need to bring back men’s, women’s, and corporate cricket,” Prasad said, leveraging his past experience as KSCA vice-president under Anil Kumble’s administration.

The panel’s vision faces challenges, including restoring public confidence post-stampede and navigating logistical upgrades. Rangaswamy highlighted the need to bolster women’s cricket, noting its neglect over the past three years. Prasad also addressed queries on India’s upcoming Asia Cup match against Pakistan, deferring to the BCCI’s stance on bilateral ties.

With the KSCA’s incumbent regime, led by Raghuram Bhat, concluding its term on September 30, 2025, Prasad’s 16-member panel aims to reinstate Chinnaswamy as a cricketing hub, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.

Also Read: Karnataka Accepts Justice JM D’Cunha’s Report on Deadly RCB Stampede

Also Read: Salima Tete Leads India’s Charge for Asia Cup Glory & World Cup Spot!