NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli could soon be back in action at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with the venue edging closer to hosting competitive cricket again.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the Karnataka State Cricket Association has received clearance from the state government to resume matches, just days after Venkatesh Prasad took charge as the newly elected KSCA president.

The development brings the iconic Bengaluru venue back into contention for domestic fixtures, with the Vijay Hazare Trophy emerging as the immediate starting point.

Vijay Hazare trophy plans take shape

The KSCA is planning to shift Delhi’s Vijay Hazare Trophy matches from Alur to Chinnaswamy due to security and logistical challenges.

Kohli has been named in a large Delhi squad along with Rishabh Pant and both are expected to be available for the opening fixtures, raising the possibility of Kohli featuring at his home ground once again.

Kohli landed in India on 13 December ahead of the domestic season, further strengthening expectations of his return to competitive cricket at Chinnaswamy.

The KSCA is also exploring the option of allowing 2000 to 3000 spectators for high profile games involving star players.

The Chinnaswamy has not hosted top level cricket since the June stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL celebrations. Since then, major events including Women’s World Cup matches were moved away.