Cricket is a sport celebrated for its grandiose stadiums, which host millions of fans and countless historic matches. Here, we explore the ten largest cricket stadiums in the world, detailing their capacity, location, features, and history.
1. Narendra Modi Stadium, India
Capacity: 132,000
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Open Date: 1983 (renovated in 2020)
Features:
- The largest cricket stadium in the world by seating capacity.
- Equipped with 76 corporate boxes, four dressing rooms, and three practice grounds.
- State-of-the-art LED lights and an innovative drainage system that allows for rapid resumption of play after rain.
- Hosted the second-largest cricket attendance during the 2021 India vs. England Test match.
2. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia
Capacity: 100,024
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Open Date: 1854
Features:
- One of the oldest cricket stadiums, often referred to as “The G”.
- Known for hosting the Boxing Day Test and the AFL Grand Final.
- Contains the National Sports Museum and a capacity for night matches with its advanced lighting system.
- Venue for the 1992 and 2015 Cricket World Cup finals.
3. Eden Gardens, India
Capacity: 68,000
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Open Date: 1864
Features:
- Famous for its electric atmosphere and passionate crowds.
- Hosted numerous historic matches, including the 1987 and 2016 ICC World Cup finals.
- Recently renovated with modern facilities and a new drainage system.
- Houses the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) headquarters.
4. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, India
Capacity: 65,000
Location: Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
Open Date: 2008
Features:
- Named after a local freedom fighter.
- Known for its lush outfield and modern facilities.
- Hosted IPL matches and has been a venue for various domestic tournaments.
- Recognized for its excellent practice facilities and large spectator capacity.
5. Perth Stadium, Australia
Capacity: 60,000
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Open Date: 2018
Features:
- Also known as Optus Stadium, it is a multi-purpose venue.
- Equipped with modern amenities, including advanced LED lighting and a high-definition screen.
- Hosts both cricket and Australian Rules Football matches.
- Famous for its scenic location along the Swan River.
6. Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, India
Capacity: 55,000
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Open Date: 2004
Features:
- Home ground for the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL.
- Known for its excellent pitch and spectator facilities.
- Features a state-of-the-art pavilion and modern media facilities.
- Hosted numerous international matches, including Test, ODI, and T20 formats.
7. Greenfield International Stadium, India
Capacity: 55,000
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Open Date: 2015
Features:
- A multi-purpose stadium designed for both cricket and football.
- Equipped with cutting-edge facilities and lush green outfields.
- Has hosted international cricket matches and Indian Super League (ISL) football games.
- Known for its eco-friendly construction and beautiful setting.
8. Adelaide Oval, Australia
Capacity: 53,500
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
Open Date: 1871
Features:
- Renowned for its picturesque setting and historic scoreboard.
- Hosts cricket, Australian Rules Football, and major concerts.
- Recently redeveloped to include modern stands and a roof terrace.
- Famous for its drop-in pitches and the iconic hill for spectators.
9. Ekana Cricket Stadium, India
Capacity: 50,000
Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Open Date: 2017
Features:
- Officially known as Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium.
- State-of-the-art facilities with excellent seating and viewing experience.
- Hosted the Afghanistan vs. West Indies series and IPL matches.
- Features modern training and practice amenities.
10. Docklands Stadium, Australia
Capacity: 48,000
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Open Date: 2000
Features:
- Also known as Marvel Stadium, it has a retractable roof, making it weather-proof.
- Hosts cricket, Australian Rules Football, and other events like concerts.
- Situated in the Docklands area, it offers stunning city views.
- Noted for its versatile use and cutting-edge design.
These stadiums are not just arenas for cricket matches but are also architectural marvels, each with its unique history and features. They embody the spirit of cricket, drawing fans from around the globe to witness the sport in all its grandeur.