Tragedy strikes RCB celebration: Cricketers mourn lives lost in stampede

Current and former cricketers on Wednesday expressed grief over the lapses in preparation that marred Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL-winning celebrations and led to the death of several fans outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

The celebratory mood in the city turned sombre just a day after RCB ended their 18-year-long wait for an IPL title. Lakhs of fans had gathered outside the stadium, overwhelming the police and resulting in complete chaos.Wednesday witnessed a bittersweet mix of jubilation and tragedy. As fans chanted and cheered in euphoria, the excitement unfortunately descended into chaos, with a stampede injuring many and claiming lives.

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Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took to social media and said: "Heartbreaking news of a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and injuries to several cricket fans has cast a dark shadow over the spirit of the game that unites millions across our nation."

"My deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate event.

I stand in solidarity with them during this incredibly difficult time and pray for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured," he said.Former India bowler Irfan Pathan also reacted to the incident with a heartbreak emoji on social media, following the loss of many lives due to the stampede.

Legendary spinner Anil Kumble called the incident "tragic.""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 today.

Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured. Tragic !!," Kumble wrote.

"What happened at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, is beyond tragic. My heart goes out to every affected family. Wishing peace and strength to all," legendary Sachin Tendulkar wrote.

Newly-crowned IPL champions RCB were welcomed with a thunderous and emotional reception as passionate fans flooded the streets and gathered in massive numbers at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to catch a glimpse of their heroes—most notably the ever-iconic Virat Kohli. RCB defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in the IPL final in Ahmedabad on Tuesday to secure their maiden title after 18 years.