The 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the 13th edition of this quadrennial One Day International (ODI) cricket tournament, is currently taking the cricketing world by storm. This grand event is hosted by India and commenced on October 5, thrilling fans with cricketing excellence. With matches scheduled to continue until November 19, 2023, the tournament showcases the cricketing prowess of nations.
Ten remarkable venues in India serve as the battleground for this spectacular cricketing carnival. From the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium to the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat. Here is your comprehensive guide to all the venues that will set the stage for thrilling encounters throughout the tournament.
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
This colossal stadium, boasting a capacity of 132,000 spectators, has witnessed many historic moments in cricket. It hosts the tournament opener, an India vs. Pakistan blockbuster, and the grand World Cup final. Renovated in 2021, this venue has a rich history, with Sunil Gavaskar crossing the 10,000-Test run mark here in 1987. In 2011, it was the place where India broke Australia’s streak of ODI World Cup final appearances since 1996.
- Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Known for its shorter boundaries, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is poised to witness high-scoring matches. It was at this venue in 2011 that Kevin O’Brien delivered the fastest century in an ODI World Cup, helping Ireland chase down 328 to beat England. This stadium has been home to the National Cricket Academy since 2000, producing several international talents.
M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Situated next to the Indian Ocean, this stadium offers a humid playing environment. It holds historical significance as the place where India achieved its first-ever Test cricket victory in 1952, defeating England. The first-ever tied Test match occurred here in 1986 during a game between India and Australia.
Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
One of India’s most iconic cricket venues, this stadium witnessed Sachin Tendulkar breaking Sunil Gavaskar’s record for the most Test centuries in a match against Sri Lanka in 2005. It was known for producing slow pitches, but renovations have led to increased pace and more competitive totals.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, Dharamsala
This relatively new stadium is renowned for its scenic views. It has been a regular fixture in India’s home international calendar since 2013. The stadium’s opening match between Afghanistan and Bangladesh promises an exciting contest with its 64-meter boundary.
Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Before the renovation of Narendra Modi Stadium, Eden Gardens was the largest venue in India with a capacity of 68,000. This lively pitch, combined with breezy conditions near the Hooghly River, is expected to deliver thrilling ODI clashes and a World Cup semi-final.
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow
Built in 2017, this stadium is relatively new to international matches. Renovations have prepared it for its debut as a World Cup venue. Australia vs. South Africa on October 12 will make history as the stadium’s first-ever World Cup fixture.
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Known as India’s ‘cricket capital,’ Wankhede Stadium has seen remarkable cricketing moments since its establishment in 1974. It witnessed Sachin Tendulkar’s masterful innings during the 1996 Men’s Cricket World Cup and Ajaz Patel’s historic 10/119 bowling figures for New Zealand against India. Expect this stadium to provide magical moments in the World Cup.
MCA International Stadium, Pune
Situated on the outskirts of Pune, this stadium hosted its first international match in 2012. With a capacity of 42,700, it is known for producing high-scoring matches. On October 19, it will host its first 2023 ICC Men’s World Cup clash when India faces Bangladesh.
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
Built in 2005, this stadium brought international cricket to Hyderabad, replacing the Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium. With a capacity of 39,200, it has gained popularity over the years, and the Sunrisers Hyderabad established themselves as an IPL force. The stadium will host three matches in October, including a clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on October 12.
As the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup unfolds across these diverse venues, cricket fans can look forward to thrilling encounters, historic moments, and unforgettable matches. Each of these stadiums has a unique charm, ensuring that the tournament will be a cricketing spectacle to remember.
