Bengaluru, Feb 9 (UNI) Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Venkatesh Prasad on Monday confirmed strong support from the Karnataka government for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the hosting of IPL and international matches in the state following a meeting with Home Minister G Parameshwara.
Speaking to reporters here, Prasad said the discussions were aimed at facilitating coordination between RCB, KSCA and various government departments to ensure smooth conduct of matches in Bengaluru. He said government officials and agencies had been proactive and supportive throughout the process.
“We have met all the government officials and agencies several times. They have guided us and supported us to make sure that IPL matches and international matches are held here,” Prasad said.
He added that officials responsible for hosting RCB matches at the KSCA stadium were part of the delegation that met the Home Minister earlier in the day. “We had a very, very good meeting with the Home Minister. I am extremely thankful to Parameshwara ji for his support,” he said.
Prasad indicated that the focus of the meeting was on administrative coordination and logistical preparedness, underlining the state government’s backing for Bengaluru as a key cricketing venue.
These comments came in the wake of RCB officially being put up for sale by its owners Diageo through United Spirits Ltd, with a strategic review process underway and an expected conclusion by March 31.
The franchise’s sale has sparked intense interest from several high-profile bidders, with valuations reported near the $2 billion mark, reflecting the franchise’s ’s strong brand value following its maiden IPL title win.
Among those linked with bids is Manchester United co‑owner Avram Glazer, who has reportedly submitted one of the highest offers through his investment vehicle, and Indian business figures like Adar Poonawalla who has publicly confirmed plans to submit strong and competitive bids for the team.
The sale process is said to have attracted non‑binding bids from multiple parties, including private equity firms and prominent Indian industrialists, as global and domestic investors seek a stake in one of the IPL’s most commercially powerful franchises.
