Bengaluru, March 28: The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) has officially kicked off. The inaugural match is taking place at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, featuring the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). RCB won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Before the first ball was bowled in this season’s opening match, a poignant scene unfolded on the field, highlighting both the spirit of the game and humanity.
Prior to the RCB-SRH match, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the 11 fans who tragically lost their lives last season. Players from both teams, along with support staff and spectators, stood in solemn silence. In tribute to the fans, players wore black armbands.
This moment of silence underscored the vital role fans play in cricket.
Last season, RCB celebrated their IPL 2025 championship title with an event at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025. Unfortunately, the turnout exceeded expectations, leading to a stampede that claimed the lives of 11 RCB fans.
In remembrance of these fans, RCB announced a cash donation and decided to keep 11 seats empty at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium throughout IPL 2026.
Having won their first IPL title in the 18th season, RCB fans believe the current team is even stronger and capable of defending their title this year.
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