Bengaluru Front-Runner To Host IPL Final But MLA Ticket Controversy Proving Major Obstacle
Sanjeev Kumar | May 5, 2026 4:23 PM CST
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to announce the venue for the IPL playoffs and the final. According to a report in ANI, the is mulling over splitting the matches between Punjab and Karnataka, the two finalists of the last season, with Bengaluru as the preferred pick to host the final as defending champions.
However, political issues are creating problems in allocating the final to Bengaluru.
For the unversed, ahead of the IPL 2026 opener between (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar demanded five IPL tickets for every MLA, saying that the elected representatives are VIPs and should not stand in line to get the tickets.
Following the request, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that three tickets for RCB matches will be provided to the MLAs and MPs. However, it was confirmed that the tickets were non-transferable, and only the MLAs or their family members can attend the matches. A BCCI source confirmed that the MLA ticket issue is a big hindrance, and if things don't work out, they'll have to move the final to another venue.
"Last time the winner should get to host the final, but the whole MLA tickets issue is getting out of control in Bengaluru, and if it doesn't come to a mid-point, then BCCI will move the final to another venue," the BCCI source was quoted as saying by ANI.
Tight Race For Playoff Berths
The IPL points table is evenly poised, with an intense fight for the third and fourth positions. RCB and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have been brilliant and, with six wins in nine games, have almost secured a playoff berth, leaving others to fight for the final two slots. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals have occupied the positions respectively, with six wins, but they have played an extra game. Gujarat Titans have also won six matches in 10 outings.
Chennai Super Kings and the Delhi Capitals have four wins and are still in the hunt, but at the moment, it's looking like a close fight between the top five teams for the four playoff berths.
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