Bengaluru: Cricketer Virat Kohli expressed deep sorrow over the stampede that occurred outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebrations, which claimed at least 11 lives. Sharing the official statement from RCB on Instagram, Kohli wrote, “At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted.”

The RCB statement said the team was “deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents.” It added, “The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extends our heartfelt condolences to the affected families.”

RCB clarified that it amended its programme as soon as it was informed about the situation and followed instructions from the local authorities. “We urge all our supporters to please stay safe,” the statement read.

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also expressed “deep concern and heartfelt condolences” over the tragedy. KSCA’s Chief Finance Officer, Shivaji Lokre, stated, “We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained. We sincerely regret this tragedy and stand in solidarity with the bereaved families during this extremely difficult time.”

RCB and KSCA jointly announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives. Lokre clarified that this amount is not intended to replace the value of human life, but as “a gesture of support and solidarity.”

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Kolkata (PTI): Finn Allen blasted a 35-ball 93, while Angkrish Raghuvanshi hit an unbeaten 44-ball 82 as Kolkata Knight Riders kept their playoff hopes alive with a 29-run win over Gujarat Titans in the IPL match here on Saturday.

Sent in to bat, Allen went on a six-hitting spree, smashing 10 maximums and four boundaries to add 95 off 41 balls with Raghuvanshi (82).

Raghuvanshi then shared another 108 off 53 balls with Cameron Green (52 not out) to power KKR to a challenging 247 for 2.

In reply, GT could manage 218-4, riding on skipper Shubman Gill's 49-ball 85 and a 35-ball 57 from Jos Buttler. Opener Sai Sudarsan was retired hurt but returned to make a 28-ball 53 not out.

Sunil Narine (2/29) claimed two wickets and Saurabh Dubey snapped one for KKR.

For GT, Mohammed Siraj (1/50), Sai Kishore (1/38) were the wicket-takers.

Brief Score:

KKR: 247 for 2 in 20 overs (Finn Allen 93, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 82 not out, Camero Green 52 not out; Mohammed Siraj 1/50).

GT: 218 for 4 in 20 overs (Shubman Gill 85, Sunil Narine 2/29).