Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir refused to blame anyone for the Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives outside the M Chinnaswamy stadium. However, he does not favour roadshows after winning major trophies. Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings by six runs to win their maiden IPL trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The team landed in Bengaluru on June 5 to celebrate the success with their fans. The authorities failed to control the crowd, leading to a tragic incident.
RCB, Karnataka Cricket Association, and the state government are facing massive flak for going ahead with the event despite not making proper arrangements. Although the celebrations were cut short, the damage was already done.
Gambhir was asked about the incident by reporters at the pre-departure press conference ahead of the England tour.
“I am not in favour of road shows. I didn’t back such plans after winning the 2007 and 2011 World Cups. Nothing of this sort should happen in the future. I don’t know about the fanbase.
“The roadshows shouldn’t have happened, as every life is important. If we are unprepared, we shouldn’t go ahead with the celebrations. We can be more responsible,” Gautam Gambhir said.
RCB players are also under scrutiny for continuing with the celebrations despite several deaths and injuries. However, the franchise has defended them, saying they were unaware of the situation and that the event was concluded after Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar’s speeches. Kohli took to social media to express his concern.
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