Cricket is hugely popular in India and is often regarded as a religion for many of its billion-plus population. The country has a rich cricketing history and culture spanning more than a century. With cricketers enjoying celebrity status, cricket stadiums play host to packed crowds cheering their favorite teams and players. India has over 45 international cricket stadiums that have hosted Test matches, ODIs and T20Is. There are also numerous smaller stadiums that host domestic cricket matches between states and clubs.
International Cricket Stadiums
Some of the most famous and iconic cricket stadiums in India include the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Feroz Shah Kotla Ground in Delhi and M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai among others. The Eden Gardens is the largest cricket stadium in India and the second largest in the world with a seating capacity of 66,000.
Domestic Cricket Stadiums
At the domestic level, the number of cricket stadiums in India crosses over a hundred. Every Indian state has multiple cricket stadiums to host Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches. These stadiums may not be as grand or large as the international ones but produce their fair share of exciting cricketing action for fans. Some state associations like Mumbai, Delhi, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have upto 10 stadiums under their administration.
With cricket enjoying tremendous popularity in India, stadium infrastructure has grown extensively over the years. Today there are several international standard stadiums across India and many more smaller grounds to promote domestic cricket. These stadiums continue to draw in huge crowds and enable India to remain the epicenter of world cricket.
List of Cricket Stadiums in India
International Cricket Stadiums
India has several world-class cricket stadiums that host international cricket matches. Here is a list of all the international cricket stadiums in India along with their location, capacity, and home teams:
Stadium | Location | Capacity | Home Team |
---|---|---|---|
Eden Gardens | Kolkata, West Bengal | 66,349 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
Wankhede Stadium | Mumbai, Maharashtra | 33,108 | Mumbai Indians |
M. A. Chidambaram Stadium | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | 38,000 | Chennai Super Kings |
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | Bengaluru, Karnataka | 40,000 | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
Feroz Shah Kotla Ground | Delhi | 48,000 | Delhi Capitals |
Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium | Mohali, Punjab | 26,950 | Kings XI Punjab |
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium | Hyderabad, Telangana | 55,000 | Sunrisers Hyderabad |
Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium | Rajkot, Gujarat | 28,000 | N/A |
Holkar Cricket Stadium | Indore, Madhya Pradesh | 27,000 | N/A |
Green Park Stadium | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh | 27,000 | N/A |
Barabati Stadium | Cuttack, Odisha | 45,000 | N/A |
Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium | Nagpur, Maharashtra | 45,000 | N/A |
Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | 42,000 | N/A |
Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium | Pune, Maharashtra | 33,108 | Rising Pune Supergiant (IPL) |
Sardar Patel Stadium | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | 54,000 | Gujarat Lions (IPL) |
JSCA International Cricket Stadium | Ranchi, Jharkhand | 39,133 | N/A |
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium | Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh | 23,000 | Kings XI Punjab (IPL) |
Sawai Mansingh Stadium | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 23,185 | Rajasthan Royals (IPL) |
India has a good mix of iconic older stadiums like Eden Gardens and Wankhede along with several modern stadiums built in the last decade or so. Most stadiums can host 35,000+ fans. The home grounds of IPL teams are also designated as international stadiums.
Domestic Cricket Stadiums
Apart from the international cricket stadiums, India has a robust domestic cricket structure with Ranji Trophy matches played in stadiums across the country. Here is a list of some of the leading domestic cricket stadiums in India:
- K.D. Singh Babu Stadium, Lucknow - Capacity: 25,000
- Nehru Stadium, Guwahati - Capacity: 40,000
- Sector 16 Stadium, Chandigarh - Capacity: 30,000
- Gandhi Sports Complex Ground, Amritsar - Capacity: 20,000
- KL Saini Stadium, Jaipur - Capacity: 10,000
- Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur - Capacity: 23,185
- Assam Cricket Association Stadium, Guwahati - Capacity: 35,000
- Jadavpur University Campus Ground, Kolkata - Capacity: 22,000
- CH Bansi Lal Cricket Stadium, Lahli - Capacity: 20,000
- Moin-ul-Haq Stadium, Patna - Capacity: 25,000
- Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai - Capacity: 20,000
- Gymkhana Ground, Secunderabad - Capacity: 10,000
- Sri Ramachandra Medical College Ground, Chennai - Capacity: 15,000
- Gandhi Stadium, Jalandhar - Capacity: 30,000
- Krishnagiri Stadium, Wayanad - Capacity: 15,000
- M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru - Capacity: 40,000
- Maharani Usharaje Trust Cricket Ground, Pune - Capacity: 25,000
- Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot - Capacity: 28,000
- Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore - Capacity: 27,000
- Gandhi Stadium, Jalandhar - Capacity: 30,000
- DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai - Capacity: 55,000
The BCCI has also upgraded many stadiums in smaller cities to conduct Ranji Trophy and other domestic tournaments. Most state associations have a main stadium in their capital city along with smaller grounds in other cities. Overall, India has over 50 domestic cricket stadiums with good facilities to support a multi-tier domestic structure.
India has a robust cricket infrastructure with over 25 international class stadiums across the country and dozens of smaller stadiums to support domestic cricket. Iconic venues like Eden Gardens co-exist with state-of-the-art new stadiums like the one in Ranchi. This allows BCCI to not only host international tournaments like the IPL and World Cup in India but also develop a strong domestic cricket structure. Players from all parts of India have access to high quality facilities which shows in the emerging cricket talent from smaller towns in India over the last decade.
Notable Cricket Stadiums
Cricket is hugely popular in India, and the country is home to some of the most iconic and historic cricket stadiums in the world. Fans are passionate about their beloved home grounds, which have hosted countless memorable matches over the years. Here are some of the most notable cricket stadiums in India:
Eden Gardens, Kolkata
With a capacity of nearly 70,000, Eden Gardens is the largest cricket stadium in India and one of the largest in the world. It is the home ground of the Kolkata Knight Riders IPL team. Eden Gardens hosted its first Test match in 1934 and has seen key moments like India’s epic win over Australia in 2001, clinching the series after following on.
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Home of the Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL team, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium can hold 40,000 fans. Opened in 1969, major milestones include Anil Kumble’s 10 wicket haul in 1999 and India’s first ever T20 International in 2006. The stadium is known for its lively crowds who cheer loudly for their beloved RCB squad.
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
With a capacity of 33,000, the Wankhede Stadium is the primary cricket venue in Mumbai. It opened in 1974 after the demolition of the Brabourne Stadium. It has hosted many key moments in Indian cricket, including India’s 2011 World Cup triumph on home soil. The stadium is the home ground of the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise.
India’s iconic cricket stadiums have an illustrious history and electric match-day atmosphere. Fans flock to these storied grounds to cheer on their teams and watch the top players in action up close. With such passion for cricket, these stadiums will likely continue hosting memorable matches for years to come.
Cricket Stadiums by City
Kolkata
The Eden Gardens in Kolkata is one of India’s most iconic cricket stadiums. With a capacity of nearly 70,000, it is the largest cricket stadium in India and the second-largest stadium in the world. Eden Gardens is the home ground of the Kolkata Knight Riders IPL team and has hosted numerous historic test matches. The stadium is known for its lively and passionate crowds.
Mumbai
The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai has a capacity of around 33,000 spectators. It is the home ground for the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise. Several memorable moments in Indian cricket have occurred at Wankhede, including India’s World Cup final win against Sri Lanka in 2011. Wankhede has hosted many test matches and was the centerpiece venue for the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Chennai
The M.A. Chidambaram Stadium or Chepauk Stadium in Chennai has a capacity of around 50,000. It is the home ground of the Chennai Super Kings IPL team and has seen some epic encounters over the years. The stadium is known for its heat and humidity. Spin bowling is often very effective on its turning track.
Delhi
The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi has a capacity of over 60,000 spectators. Previously known as the Feroz Shah Kotla, it is the home ground for the Delhi Capitals IPL team. The Delhi stadium has hosted many important cricket games over the years, including test matches and ODIs. The pitch is usually on the slower side which makes stroke-making difficult.
With big capacities and loads of cricket history, these stadiums play host to some of India’s biggest cricket matches and most passionate crowds. They provide an electrifying venue for players and fans alike.
Recent Stadium Developments
Over the past decade, there have been several notable stadium construction and renovation projects around the world. Countries have invested heavily in building modern, state-of-the-art venues to host major sporting events and provide an enhanced experience for fans.
Narendra Modi Stadium Renovation
One major stadium upgrade in recent years was the renovation of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. Originally built in 1982, the stadium underwent a massive $100 million renovation in 2020. The seating capacity was increased from 49,000 to 110,000, making it the largest cricket stadium in the world. Many modern amenities were added, including a clubhouse and 76 corporate boxes. The impressive new LED lights have also enabled day-night cricket matches to be played at the venue.
Allianz Stadium Rebuild
In Sydney, the Allianz Stadium was completely demolished and rebuilt between 2018-2022 at a cost of $828 million AUD. The new stadium has a capacity of 45,000 seats and features two main grandstands, premium seating, and a roof that covers all seats. It will serve as the home ground for several sports teams in Sydney and will also host major events like concerts. The rebuild of the dated stadium into a modern facility has drawn both praise and criticism due to its hefty price tag.
SoFi Stadium
One of the most expensive stadium projects ever is the new SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, home of the LA Rams and LA Chargers NFL teams. The $5 billion development opened in 2020 with a capacity of 70,000 for football and 100,000 for concerts. It features a 360-degree, dual-sided video board, an innovative ETFE roof, and excellent amenities for fans. The stadium was built on the site of the old Hollywood Park Racetrack.
Upcoming Cricket Stadiums
Cricket is hugely popular in India and new stadiums are constantly being built to meet the demand for more venues to host cricket matches. Here are some of the new cricket stadiums under construction in India:
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is the largest cricket stadium in the world with a capacity of 110,000 spectators. It was inaugurated in 2020 after extensive renovations to the original Sardar Patel Stadium. State-of-the-art facilities including LED lights, modern dressing rooms and VIP boxes have been added. The stadium has already hosted many high-profile matches including day-night test matches.
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur
This new cricket stadium being built in Naya Raipur, near Raipur in Chhattisgarh will have a capacity of 65,000 spectators. The construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. International standard facilities like swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis courts are also being built. The stadium design incorporates solar power generation and rainwater harvesting systems.
Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram
The Greenfield International Stadium coming up in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala will have a capacity of 50,000 people. The stadium and complex will have 3 practice grounds, indoor & outdoor practice pitches, swimming pool, and other sports facilities. It aims to meet international standards for hosting cricket matches. The project is expected to be completed by end of 2023.
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Pune
A new international level cricket stadium is being built in Pune, Maharashtra with a capacity of 55,000 spectators. The stadium will have state-of-the-art facilities at par with top international cricket stadiums. Construction work has begun and is targeted for completion by mid 2024. When finished, it will be one of the largest stadiums in India.
New stadiums with enhanced capacities and modern amenities are crucial for India to host more international tournaments and matches in the future. The upcoming stadiums highlighted will significantly boost the cricket infrastructure in the country.
Notable Cricket Matches
India vs Pakistan, 2011 World Cup Semi-Final
This high-stakes match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at Mohali during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup is etched in cricketing folklore. Batting first, India posted 260/9 courtesy a gritty 85 by Sachin Tendulkar. Pakistan seemed to be cruising at 187/2 before off-spinner Saeed Ajmal claimed the big wicket of batsman Umar Akmal. The dismissal triggered a Pakistani collapse as they lost their last 8 wickets for just 74 runs. India won by 29 runs and advanced to the final where they beat Sri Lanka to clinch their second World Cup title.
Australia vs South Africa, 2006 ODI at Johannesburg
This ODI witnessed a world record 434-run chase by South Africa to stun Australia. Batting first, Australia posted a mammoth 434/4 on the back of centuries from openers Adam Gilchrist (149) and Simon Katich (108). In response, Herschelle Gibbs hammered 175 as South Africa gunned down the huge target with one ball to spare. The successful run chase broke Australia’s 16-match winning streak in ODIs.
India vs Australia 2001, 2nd Test at Eden Gardens
This historic Test match saw India script an improbable turnaround after following on. Australia amassed 445 in their first innings before bowling out India for 171. Asked to follow on, VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) staged an epic 376-run partnership on Day 4 to help India set Australia an impossible target of 384. The visitors collapsed on the final day to hand India a victory by 171 runs after being made to follow on.
Conclusion
Cricket enjoys an exalted status in India, with stadiums that are steeped in history and unmatched passion of fans. The country has made tremendous progress in building state-of-the-art stadiums, while also preserving historic venues like Eden Gardens that have witnessed many memorable matches over the decades. With capacities exceeding 100,000, recent constructions like the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad have propelled India’s stadium infrastructure to the top of the world.
Going forward, India is set to open more world-class cricket stadiums in cities like Pune, Thiruvananthapuram and Raipur that will boost its capabilities to host major cricket tournaments. Complementing these large grounds are smaller stadiums across cities and towns that serve as excellent nurseries for grooming talent. The stadium experience for fans is also being enhanced with better seating, hospitality boxes, and even solar power and rainwater harvesting facilities at the new venues. For a nation that treats cricket like a religion, the future looks bright with state-of-the-art stadiums enabling India to remain the epicenter of world cricket.