Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, with billions of fans globally. This popularity has led to the construction of some massive cricket stadiums around the world to accommodate the huge crowds that come to watch cricket matches. Let’s take a look at the 10 biggest cricket stadiums globally based on seating capacity.
The 10 Biggest Cricket Stadiums in the World
1. Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India
Capacity: 132,000
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India is currently the largest cricket stadium in the world with a mammoth capacity of 132,000. Built in 2020 after extensive renovations, this massive facility has hosted national and domestic cricket matches.
2. Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
Capacity: 100,024
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground is the second largest stadium in the world with a capacity of 100,024. Opened way back in 1853, it has undergone multiple upgrades over the decades. It has hosted major sporting events like the Olympics and cricket World Cups.
3. Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India
Capacity: 68,000
Eden Gardens in Kolkata is an iconic Indian cricket stadium that has been in use since 1864. It has a capacity of 68,000 spectators. It has hosted major cricket tournaments and matches over the years. Eden Gardens is known for its electric atmosphere during games.
4. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, India
Capacity: 65,400
The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, India is currently the fourth largest cricket stadium in the world with a capacity of 65,400. Opened in 2008, it has hosted domestic cricket and franchise matches.
5. Perth Stadium, Perth, Australia
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Capacity: 61,266
The state-of-the-art Perth Stadium in Australia opened in 2018 and can accommodate 61,266 spectators. It is a multi-purpose venue used for cricket and other sports. It hosts domestic cricket as well as Big Bash League franchise matches.
6. Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad, India
Capacity: 55,000
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, India opened in 2003. With a capacity of 55,000, it is home ground for the IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad.
7. Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, India
Capacity: 55,000
Opened in 2017, the Greenfield International Stadium in Kerala, India can host 55,000 fans. It has hosted national and domestic cricket matches so far.
8. Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Australia
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Capacity: 53,583
The Adelaide Oval is a historic cricket stadium in Australia that was established in 1871. After recent extensive upgrades, it can now seat 53,583 spectators for cricket matches. It hosts major cricket tournaments and events.
9. Ekana International Stadium, Lucknow, India
Capacity: 50,000
A new entrant, the Ekana International Stadium in Lucknow, India opened in 2022 with a capacity of 50,000. It will host domestic cricket as well as IPL matches.
10. M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, India
Capacity: 50,000
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has been a major cricket venue in India since 1916. With a capacity of 50,000, it is home to the IPL team Chennai Super Kings. The stadium is known for its vociferous and lively crowds.
Conclusion
The Quest to Build the Largest Cricket Stadium
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, with billions of fans spanning several countries. As the sport continues to grow, there is an increasing need for larger stadiums that can accommodate the hordes of passionate cricket lovers. This has sparked an intriguing race between major cricketing nations to construct the biggest and most iconic cricket stadium ever built.
The current record-holder for the largest cricket stadium is the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. With a jaw-dropping capacity of 132,000 spectators, it surpassed the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, which can seat around 100,000 fans. The newly renovated Narendra Modi Stadium reopened in February 2021 and was instantly catapulted to the top position.
However, several ambitious projects are now underway to dethrone the massive stadium in India. Most notably, Pakistan has begun construction of a colossal stadium in Karachi that is designed to seat over 100,000 spectators. The stadium would represent a major milestone for Pakistan, which has lagged behind other cricketing giants when it comes to stadium infrastructure.
Meanwhile, England, the birthplace of cricket, is looking to reclaim the world record. There are plans in the works to redevelop the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London and expand its capacity to over 130,000 seats. As the spiritual home of cricket, Lord’s would be an appropriate contender for the largest stadium title.
Other top cricketing nations like Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand are also exploring the feasibility of building record-breaking stadiums to satisfy their cricket-crazy citizens. Amidst this competitive race, the winning formula seems to be a combination of modern amenities, iconic architecture, and sheer size.
While some criticize the pursuit of size over sustainability and comfort, colossal cricket stadiums allow more fans to experience the electric atmosphere of live matches. For many, watching cricket in a legendary stadium is a lifelong dream. Ultimately, the largest cricket stadium built will have to balance scale and fan experience.
With national pride and cricket supremacy at stake, the next decade may see even larger stadiums rise as countries try to outdo each other. The quest to build the greatest cricket stadium ever will continue to kindle fierce but friendly rivalries between cricketing nations. For die-hard cricket fans worldwide, it is an exciting prospect.
