The BCCI has relocated this season's Duleep Trophy final to Chennai's M.A. Chidambaram Stadium to accommodate spectators following previous closed-door matches.
In a move acknowledging that domestic cricket needs an audience, the BCCI has shifted this season's Duleep Trophy final to Chennai's M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. The match was originally set to be held at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) on the outskirts of Bengaluru, where spectators were previously barred.
The venue change follows repeated frustrations for fans attempting to watch First Class cricket. During last season's Duleep Trophy at the CoE, supporters gathering at the gates were routinely turned away by security personnel. On one occasion, an individual claiming to be a player's relative had to make multiple phone calls and wait for hours before gaining entry. A similar situation occurred during a Karnataka versus Kerala Ranji Trophy match at the Alur grounds, where spectators eager to see Sanju Samson were denied entry.
Addressing the restriction on spectators, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia previously stated that the Board would consider moving the final. Around 10 days after his comments, the decision to relocate the match to Chennai was officially executed.
Although the Duleep Trophy lacks the glamour of international cricket or the IPL, it has historically served as a vital stepping stone to the Indian national team. Allowing crowds back into the stands offers a key emotional lift to players competing in domestic First Class fixtures.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Cricket. Photo courtesy The Hindu Cricket.