In a country where cricket is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life, the passion for the game runs deep in the hearts of millions. Every cricket fan harbors a dream of witnessing a live cricket match from the stadium, and let us assure you, the experience is nothing short of surreal.
Cricket stadiums in India are not just venues; they are hallowed grounds where history is made, legends are born, and emotions run wild. The energy that fills the air during a cricket match is electric and unlike anything else. The roar of the crowd, the chants, and the collective anticipation create an atmosphere that is truly unparalleled.
In this blog, we are thrilled to showcase the top 10 cricket stadiums in India, each with its unique charm and significance. From iconic venues that have witnessed unforgettable matches to state-of-the-art facilities that offer a glimpse into the future of cricket, we will take you on a virtual tour of these remarkable stadiums.
Top 10 Cricket Stadiums in India
- 10] Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium
- 9] HPCA Stadium
- 8] Ekana Cricket Stadium
- 7] IS Bindra Stadium
- 6] Wankhede Stadium
- 5] M. A Chidambaram Stadium
- 4] Arjun Jaitley Stadium
- 3] M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
- 2] Eden Gardens
- 1] Narendra Modi stadium
In Detail Top 10 Cricket Stadiums in India
10] Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium
The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, located in Uppal, a suburb of Hyderabad, Telangana, India, is considered one of the top 10 cricket stadiums in India. It serves as the primary cricket venue for Hyderabad Cricket Association and has a seating capacity of 55,000 spectators, making it one of the largest cricket stadiums globally.
The stadium offers various facilities, including a well-equipped media center, a VIP lounge, and a spacious players’ dressing room. It boasts a state-of-the-art drainage system, enabling swift resumption of play even after rainfall.
Renowned for its hosting prowess, the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium has been the venue for numerous international cricket matches. Notable fixtures include the 2017 India vs Australia Test match, the 2019 India vs West Indies ODI, and the 2022 India vs New Zealand ODI. Additionally, the stadium has hosted several IPL matches featuring the Sunrisers Hyderabad.
In preparation for the upcoming 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allocated a substantial budget of 117 crores for the renovation of the Uppal stadium. This investment underscores the stadium’s importance and commitment to providing an exceptional cricketing experience.
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9] HPCA Stadium
The HPCA Stadium, officially known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, is a charming cricket venue situated in Dharamshala, a city in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Built in 2003, this stadium operates under the guidance of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association and has a seating capacity of 23,000 spectators.
Perched at an impressive altitude of approximately 1,457 meters (4,780 feet) above sea level, the HPCA Stadium is renowned as one of the highest cricket grounds globally. Its unique location adds to its allure, captivating players and spectators alike.
Tourists have the opportunity to explore the stadium, delving into its rich history and top-notch facilities. The stadium provides a remarkable experience for cricket enthusiasts, allowing them to witness matches amidst a stunning natural setting. It comes as no surprise that it ranks among the top 10 cricket stadiums in India.
Having hosted numerous international cricket matches, including the prestigious 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, the HPCA Stadium proudly serves as the home ground for the Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab) team in the Indian Premier League. The stadium’s scenic backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains enhances the overall visual splendor, providing a feast for the eyes.
8] Ekana Cricket Stadium
Ekana Cricket Stadium is an international cricket stadium located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is the third-largest cricket stadium in India, after Eden Gardens and Narendra Modi stadium. The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 and is equipped with facilities for day/night matches. It is one of the most advanced Top 10 cricket stadiums in India
Ekana Cricket Stadium is known for its beautiful architecture and design. It was inaugurated in 2017 and is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The stadium is part of the Ekana Sports City, which includes a sports academy, a sports museum, and a sports hospital.
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7] IS Bindra Stadium
The Mohali Stadium, officially known as the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, is a highly esteemed cricket venue that holds a distinguished place among the top 10 cricket stadiums in India. Located in Mohali, Punjab, it has earned a reputation for hosting prestigious international and domestic cricket matches and serves as the one of two home grounds for the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Equipped with modern amenities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, the stadium offers floodlights for day-night matches, a well-furnished media center, and a VIP pavilion, ensuring a delightful experience for both players and spectators. The well-maintained lush green outfield and the pitch, designed to provide a fair contest between bat and ball, contribute to an exhilarating atmosphere during matches.
Established in 1993, the Mohali Stadium can accommodate approximately 26,000 ardent cricket enthusiasts. It was named in honor of Mr. IS Bindra, a prominent figure in Indian cricket who served as the former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and played a pivotal role in the development of cricket in Punjab.
The Mohali Stadium has witnessed historic moments, with one of the notable highlights being the gripping 2011 World Cup semi-final between India and Pakistan. This match, filled with intense rivalry and emotions, added to the stadium’s legacy of hosting remarkable cricketing encounters.
6] Wankhede Stadium
Wankhede Stadium, situated along the picturesque Arabian Sea in Mumbai, is a highly esteemed cricket venue in India. With a seating capacity of 33,000 spectators, it has been the host to numerous momentous cricket matches, notably the unforgettable 2011 Cricket World Cup Final where India triumphed over Sri Lanka, as well as the gripping semi-final of the 2016 ICC World Twenty20.
Established in 1974, Wankhede Stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2011 in preparation for the prestigious Cricket World Cup. It is owned by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and bears the name of Sheshrao Wankhede, a revered former president of the MCA.
The stadium promises an exhilarating viewing experience, offering excellent sightlines from all stands, including the renowned Garware Pavilion and the Sachin Tendulkar Stand, paying homage to the iconic cricketer.
Wankhede Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbai’s cricket enthusiasts as it stands as the revered home ground of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. It was on this very ground that Tendulkar bid farewell to international cricket, receiving an indelible farewell from his adoring fans.
Situated in the Churchgate area of Mumbai, the stadium boasts excellent accessibility via public transportation, with the Churchgate railway station just a brief 10-minute stroll away. Wankhede Stadium stands as an emblem of Mumbai’s profound passion for cricket and has played witness to some of the most exhilarating matches and cherished moments in the sport, firmly establishing itself among the top 10 cricket stadiums in India.
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5] M. A Chidambaram Stadium
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, established in 1916, holds a significant place in India’s cricketing history. Named after M. A. Chidambaram, who led the BCCI from 1963 to 1977, it is the country’s third oldest cricket stadium. With a seating capacity of 40,000, the stadium is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere during cricket matches. It proudly serves as the home ground for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
While the stadium boasts a rich heritage, there have been concerns about certain facilities, including seating arrangements and restrooms. However, recent renovations have been carried out to enhance these facilities and provide a better experience for spectators.
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium has witnessed some remarkable cricketing feats. One such achievement is India’s highest team total in a Test match, scoring 759/7 declared against England in 2016. Additionally, it saw Virender Sehwag’s exceptional innings of 319, the highest individual score in a Test match against South Africa in 2008.
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, with its rich history, unforgettable cricketing moments, and esteemed reputation, stands proudly among the top 10 cricket stadiums in India. It continues to be a beloved venue for cricket enthusiasts, serving as a testament to Chennai’s sporting legacy.
4] Arun Jaitley Stadium
The Arun Jaitley Stadium, formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, is an internationally renowned cricket facility in Delhi, India. It was renamed after Arun Jaitley, a former Union Minister and the President of the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) who died in 2019. It is the home venue of the Delhi Capitals, a franchise side in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with a seating capacity of 55,000.
The Arun Jaitley Stadium has held many international cricket matches over the years, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). It’s also a popular location for domestic cricket matches and other athletic events like the Indian Badminton League. The stadium was renovated in 2008 and 2010 to accommodate more spectators and improve facilities.
Anil Kumble’s incredible 10-wicket haul in 1999 is one of the most memorable matches played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Kumble achieved the unprecedented achievement of taking all ten wickets in a single innings during a Test match against Pakistan, etching his place in cricketing history.
With its rich history and first-rate facilities, the Arun Jaitley Stadium is among top 10 cricket stadiums in India. It remains a major cricketing facility and an important component of Delhi’s sporting landscape.
3] M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, established in 1969 and originally named Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) Stadium, holds a seating capacity of 40,000. It was later renamed in honor of M. Chinnaswamy, who served as the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from 1977 to 1980. The stadium is owned by the Government of Karnataka and serves as the home ground for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has hosted numerous significant cricket matches, including games from the 1987 and 1996 Cricket World Cups, the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, and the 2016 ICC World Twenty20.
The stadium is comprised of four stands, namely the Pavilion End, BEML End, Vittal Mallya Stand, and Grand Stand. With a seating capacity of 40,000, it provides ample space for spectators. In 2015, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium gained recognition for being the world’s first solar-powered cricket ground.
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium stands among the top 10 cricket stadiums in India, known for its rich history, memorable matches, and notable facilities.
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2] Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens, located in Kolkata, India, is one of the top 10 cricket stadiums in India. It holds the distinction of being the second-largest stadium in India, with a seating capacity exceeding 80,000. The ownership of the stadium lies with the Indian Army. It is revered as the Mecca of Cricket in India.
Established in 1864, Eden Gardens has been the venue for several significant cricket matches. It has hosted prestigious events like the finals of the 1987 and 1996 Cricket World Cups, as well as the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 final. Beyond cricket, the stadium has also been utilized for various sports, music concerts, and political rallies.
Eden Gardens has witnessed numerous historic encounters, including the memorable 2001 Test match between India and Australia, where the remarkable partnership between VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid led to a remarkable victory for India after following on. The stadium has also hosted matches of the Cricket World Cup, Indian Premier League (IPL), and other domestic cricket tournaments.
The stadium features four stands and has a seating capacity of over 80,000 spectators. Adjacent to the cricket ground is a park known as Eden Gardens Park, further enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
1] Narendra Modi stadium
Narendra Modi Stadium, formerly known as Motera Stadium, is a cricket venue situated in Ahmedabad, India. It holds the distinction of being the largest cricket stadium globally, with an impressive seating capacity of 132,000. In February 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the stadium after its recent renovation.
The stadium boasts numerous amenities, including a clubhouse featuring 55 rooms, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, 76 corporate boxes, and a parking area capable of accommodating 3,000 cars and 10,000 two-wheelers. Additionally, it is equipped with an advanced drainage system that can clear the ground of water within a mere 30 minutes.
Over the years, the Narendra Modi Stadium has hosted various cricket matches of significance. Noteworthy events held at the stadium include the 4th Test between India and England in March 2021, the final of IPL 2023, and the India vs. Australia Test match in March 2023. Furthermore, the stadium has also been utilized for non-cricket occasions, exemplified by the Namaste Trump event in February 2020. During this gathering, the stadium witnessed an audience of over 100,000 people, as US President Donald Trump addressed the attendees.