IPL 2026 Honors: Dravid and Kumble Get Stadium Ends Named After Them
Synopsis
On April 5, 2026, Bengaluru celebrated the legendary contributions of cricketers Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble by dedicating stadium ends in their names at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. This significant event took place before the much-anticipated IPL match between CSK and RCB.
Key Takeaways
Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble honored with stadium ends.
M Chinnaswamy Stadium hosts IPL 2026 match.
Former teammates and family members attended the ceremony.
Dravid scored 24,177 runs ; Kumble took 956 wickets .
Both legends have served as captains and coaches for India.
Bengaluru, April 5 (NationPress) Renowned Indian cricketers Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble received a prestigious honor on Sunday, as two stadium ends at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium were named in their commendation prior to the IPL 2026 match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) officially inaugurated the "Rahul Dravid End" and the "Anil Kumble End" during a ceremony that saw the presence of both players' family members. The previous BEML end has been renamed in honor of Dravid, while Kumble's name now adorns the pavilion end.
Overseeing the ceremony was Venkatesh Prasad, KSCA president and former Indian fast bowler, alongside vice-president Sujith Somasundar and other officials from the association.
Earlier this year, in February, the association declared their intention to honor Dravid, who has accumulated 24,177 international runs, and Kumble, India’s all-time leading wicket-taker with 956 wickets across all formats.
Reflecting on the significance of the venue, Dravid expressed, "This stadium has been a second home to me, a place where, as Anil mentioned, we likely spent more time than in our own homes. It has been a source of immense joy and occasional disappointment, but it has truly shaped who I am today. I am forever thankful to the KSCA and this iconic ground for everything it has provided me in life."
Both cricketers share the unique distinction of having captained India and later served as coaches for the national team. Family members present included Dravid's mother Pushpa and brother Vijay, as well as Kumble's wife Chetana, son Mayas, and daughters Aaruni and Swasthi.
Kumble remarked, "I believe it’s fair to say that all our contributions have shaped Karnataka cricket, just as Karnataka cricket has contributed to our successes. It’s not merely about whose name is on which stand; it is truly special that all contributions are now permanently commemorated in this stadium."
Point of View
Fostering pride within the local community.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were stadium ends named after Dravid and Kumble?
The Karnataka State Cricket Association honored Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble for their significant contributions to Indian cricket by naming stadium ends after them at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
What are the names of the new stadium ends?
The newly named stadium ends are the 'Rahul Dravid End' and the 'Anil Kumble End'.
When was the naming ceremony held?
The naming ceremony took place on April 5, 2026, ahead of the IPL 2026 match between CSK and RCB.
Who attended the ceremony?
Family members of both players, as well as KSCA officials including president Venkatesh Prasad and vice-president Sujith Somasundar, were present at the ceremony.
What is the significance of this honor?
This honor recognizes the lasting impact Dravid and Kumble have had on Indian cricket, both as players and as coaches.
