BCCI planing crackdown on ‘unauthorised persons’ team bus travel’:Devajit Saikia reveals MLA ticket issue reason behind Chinnaswamy snub

A day after unveiling the playoffs schedule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the reason for shifting the final venue from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. In an interaction with the media, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia revealed that frivolous demands from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) compelled them to change the spot for the final of IPL 2026. Apparently, all host state associations receive a 15% allocation of their total capacity in the form of complimentary tickets. But KSCA was demanding almost 10,000 tickets more than the threshold from BCCI, which is significantly higher than the promised demand. BCCI explains why IPL final venue shifted to Ahmedabad In an interaction with ANI, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia explained, why the IPL showdown venue has been shifted from the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru to the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. He said, “As per IPL protocol, we are required to provide only 15% of the total seating capacity as complimentary tickets to the host association. This constitutes the standard protocol; all host state associations receive a 15% allocation of their total capacity in the form of complimentary tickets. However, the Karnataka State Association was claiming a significantly higher number of complimentary tickets, far exceeding the stipulated 15%.” “We were shocked as KSCA mentioned via email, that, over and above the 15% complimentary ticket quota, they would require an additional, substantial allocation of tickets for their members, affiliated clubs, and various others. Most surprisingly, they also requested tickets for their local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of the Legislative Council. And also to the government of Karnataka, 700 complimentary tickets. Thus, over and above the 15% allocation, they were demanding approximately 10,000 additional tickets,” he added further. Saikia then concluded, “As you are all aware, the BCCI serves as the host body for the Playoff and Final matches. Therefore, we cannot violate our protocols by issuing tickets in excess of what is permitted under the IPL’s rules and regulations, specifically, the 15% complimentary quota allocated to the host state. Consequently, we were compelled to make the difficult decision to relocate the matches from Karnataka…” BCCI takes note of IPL 2026 conduct concerns Amid rising concerns over the behaviour of franchises and players during IPL 2026, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has acknowledged several irregularities linked to team conduct. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board is closely monitoring the situation and plans to address the matter soon. “There have been some irregularities noticed in the conduct of a few franchises and players. We have observed unauthorised persons travelling with players, including on team buses, and visiting team hotels,” Saikia told IANS. He further added, “We will issue an advisory to all franchises and players. There are certain protocols in place, and if anyone fails to follow them, the BCCI will take appropriate action.” According to multiple reports, several players were reportedly seen travelling with their rumoured partners on team buses and accommodating them in team hotels.