Why is Hubballi hosting Ranji Trophy Final Match instead of Bengaluru? When will players Reach?

Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir gear up for a historic Ranji Trophy final showdown in Hubli, as sources reveal the BCCI's venue pick.

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) awaits formal announcement, a report from Cricbuzz says that board insiders that northern Karnataka's Hubballi (aka Hubli) will host the marquee domestic clash at KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground. Expect official word by day's end.

Karnataka vs Jammu & Kashmir in Ranji Trophy Final

The 91st Ranji Trophy final kicks off February 24. Karnataka sealed their spot Thursday evening, drawing Uttarakhand but advancing on a first-innings lead. Jammu & Kashmir earned their first-ever final berth Wednesday, chasing down Bengal by six wickets in Kalyani for an outright win.

Karnataka boasts a stellar record with 15 final appearances, eight titles, including a 2015 triumph over Tamil Nadu. They hold a perfect 4-0 edge over J&K and will be hoping to continue their dominance.

The Hubli stadium, known as KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground, hosted Karnataka's league fixture against Chandigarh earlier this season. Karnataka had won that game by 185 runs.

Why is Hubballi hosting Ranji Trophy Final?

Hubballi has been chosen as the new venue for Ranji Trophy after the M Chinnaswamy Stadium is not being readied for the function. The premier stadium in Bengaluru has been battling unfit accusations after the stampede massacre last year, but has been cleared to host IPL 2026 matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With the BCCI CoE venues also not in optimum condition, the match has now been moved to Hubli.

J&K players on Way

Jammu and Kashmir players headed to Bengaluru on Thursday (February 19) from Kolkata. The match against Bengal ended in four days and they have already reached the Garden City. MyKhel understands the J&K team will head for Hubballi on Friday, as the final starts from Tuesday (February 24).