The joy of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title win quickly turned into heartbreak as a stampede during the team’s victory parade to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium left 11 dead and around 45 injured on Wednesday. Among the casualties was a 14-year-old, casting a dark shadow over what was meant to be a historic celebration.
The tragic incident prompted strong reactions from the cricketing fraternity, including India’s national team head coach Gautam Gambhir. Speaking at the press conference on Thursday ahead of India's tour of England, Gambhir didn’t mince his words. He slammed the culture of parades and also the management that organized without preparations.
“I was never a believer in having a roadshow,” he said. “We need to be responsible citizens. If we weren’t ready to hold a roadshow, we shouldn’t have done that.”
The Karnataka High Court, taking suo motu cognizance of the tragedy, held a hearing on Thursday to discuss administrative lapses. The court has adjourned proceedings to Tuesday, seeking further clarity on the crowd management plans.
Karnataka’s Chief Minister has announced that all medical treatment for the injured -- whether in private or government hospitals -- will be provided free of charge. Meanwhile, the RCB franchise has pledged 10 Lakh INR in support to the families of the deceased.
At the same press conference, Gambhir, alongside captain Shubman Gill, also addressed questions about India's upcoming five-match Test series against England.
When asked about Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the series, Gambhir said:
“We haven’t taken a call on which three Tests Jasprit Bumrah will play.”
Gambhir ensured the selection for the best playing XIs for India's red-ball series at the Lords, while hinting at a flexible squad selection strategy.
“We will select the best playing eleven which can give us results, keeping conditions in mind,” he added.
“We will not judge anyone on the basis of one or two Tests.”
India’s five-match Test series against England begins on June 20, with the first Test scheduled at Headingley Carnegie in Leeds.
