In a significant move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has established a three-member panel tasked with creating guidelines to prevent tragic incidents similar to the recent Bengaluru stampede. The decision came after their 28th Apex Council Meeting, where the committee was formed in response to expressions of grief over recent tragedies.
The Bengaluru stampede, following the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic first Indian Premier League (IPL) win, resulted in the tragic loss of 11 lives. This calamity was compounded by the even graver Ahmedabad Air India plane crash that claimed 274 lives the same day. Such incidents have raised serious concerns over fan safety during cricket celebrations.
In a statement, the BCCI expressed its heartfelt condolences regarding these unfortunate events. It emphasized the necessity of formal guidelines to ensure that safety protocols are in place during public gatherings, particularly at cricket matches. The newly formed committee, headed by Devajit Saikia, includes other key figures Prabhtej Singh Bhatia and Rajeev Shukla. This committee has a tight deadline to draft these guidelines within just 15 days.
But that’s not all. The Apex Council has recognized the need for continuous improvement in officiating standards as well. They have decided to establish a Working Group made up of five ‘Umpire Coaches’ whose primary goal will be to enhance umpires’ on-field performance. This group must consist of individuals with international umpiring experience, ensuring that only the best are tasked with this responsibility.
In conjunction with improving umpire training, the BCCI has also announced the formation of another Working Group, consisting of three former Match Referees. This group will monitor the development of match referees, providing them opportunities to sharpen their skills and better their overall performance in cricket matches.
Meanwhile, cricket fans have another reason to rejoice. The Apex Council confirmed the venues for India’s upcoming white-ball home series against New Zealand, which is set to take place in early 2026. Venue confirmations indicate that the BCCI is working diligently to ensure that cricket continues to flourish in a safe environment.
As the domestic cricket calendar for the 2025-26 season has also been approved, BCCI’s commitment towards enhancing the structure of Indian cricket is commendable. The board is clearly focused on future developments and learning from past incidents, ensuring that the game can be enjoyed safely by fans and players alike.
Sport is meant to be an exhilarating experience, and with these new steps, the BCCI is striving to uphold the integrity of cricket while safeguarding the lives of its supporters. The upcoming guidelines and working groups represent a proactive approach to managing the risks associated with large sporting events.
As we look forward to the cricketing calendar, it is essential to remember that the safety and well-being of everyone involved should take precedence. With the consistent efforts of the BCCI and a commitment to improvement, the future of Indian cricket seems poised for growth, while remaining mindful of the past.
In summary, the BCCI’s latest decisions signal a pivotal moment for cricket administration in India. The formation of guidelines, along with the establishment of dedicated working groups for umpires and referees, indicates a comprehensive approach aimed at enhancing not only performance standards but also the safety of fans. With the 2025-26 domestic season and the New Zealand series on the horizon, cricket lovers can expect an exciting period ahead.
Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the BCCI works diligently to roll out these improvements. The hope is that the measures put in place will prevent tragic incidents in the future, allowing cricket to remain a beloved sport marked by joy and celebration.
