Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma and all-rounder Krunal Pandya have shared heartfelt messages following the tragic Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL title celebrations at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4. The horrific incident overshadowed what was meant to be a historic night for RCB, who lifted their maiden IPL trophy earlier this year.
Jitesh, speaking through RCB’s official social media handles, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. “As athletes, we are trained to move on from wins and losses and focus on the next challenge. But we will never be able to move on from June 4th, the day some of our own suffered,” he said.
He added that the bond between the team and its supporters extends beyond cricket: “Our care for each other goes beyond the field, and we will remain united with the families affected. They will forever be in our hearts.”
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Krunal Pandya echoed Jitesh’s sentiments, praising the unwavering loyalty of RCB’s fan base. “RCB fans, your love gave us strength, your belief lifted us in every moment. That a night of celebration turned into sorrow breaks our hearts,” Krunal said. “To every grieving family, we carry you in our thoughts and spirit. We play for you. We stand with you. You are part of this family – today, and always.”
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Earlier, RCB legends Virat Kohli, captain Rajat Patidar, and director of cricket Mo Bobat also expressed condolences. The franchise has since announced a ₹25 lakh compensation package for each victim’s family, a permanent memorial in Bengaluru, and a six-point safety plan to avoid future tragedies.
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A judicial inquiry led by retired Karnataka High Court judge Justice Michael D’Cunha found event organisers guilty of breaching safety norms. Following this, the stadium was declared unfit for major events, forcing Women’s World Cup matches to shift to Navi Mumbai and the Maharaja T20 Trophy to Mysuru. The Karnataka government has since placed accountability on RCB, KSCA, and DNA Entertainment Networks for poor planning and execution.
