Cricket fraternity offers condolences over stampede says it has cast dark shadow over the game

Several former Indian cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, and Anil Kumble, expressed grief over the tragic stampede at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday evening, offering condolences to the families of the victims.

The celebratory event, organised by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) for RCB, drew lakhs of fans to the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of their team. However, the overwhelming turnout led to chaos and devastating consequences.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar called the incident “tragic” on X (formerly Twitter). “My heart goes out to every affected family. Wishing peace and strength to all,” he wrote.


Former India opener and commentator Aakash Chopra said he was “speechless” and “numb” after hearing the news.

Madan Lal, former Indian cricketer turned analyst, criticised the handling of the event, calling it 'badly organised'. “When seven people died, we should have stopped the celebrations. We have no value for human life,” he posted on X.

Harbhajan Singh, former off-spinner for India, said the loss of lives had cast a dark shadow over the spirit of the game that unites millions across the nation. Former captain and coach Anil Kumble wrote, “It’s a sad day for cricket. My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives while celebrating RCB’s victory.”

Former Karnataka cricketer Dodda Ganesh called it the “saddest day” of his life.