India’s cricketing culture is deeply rooted in its stadiums, each contributing to the growth and excitement of the sport. These venues have not only witnessed thrilling matches but have become an integral part of India’s cricketing history. These grounds have hosted some of the most memorable moments in cricket history, from epic Test matches to amazing World Cup games. Let’s explore the 15 oldest cricket stadiums in India, from their establishment to their current status, and understand their role in shaping the cricketing landscape.
Journey Through India’s 14 Oldest Cricket Stadiums:
1. Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Established: 1864
- History: Eden Gardens is India’s oldest and most iconic cricket stadium, often referred to as the “Mecca of Indian cricket.” It has hosted numerous historic events, such as India’s first-ever Test win against Australia in 2001, and the unforgettable 1987 World Cup semi-final. Known for its immense capacity and passionate crowd, it stands as a symbol of India’s cricketing fervor.
- Established By: The British East India Company, managed by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).
- Cricket Matches: 42 Test matches, 36 ODIs, and several T20s.
- Address: Eden Gardens, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021.
2. Feroz Shah Kotla Ground (Arun Jaitley Stadium), Delhi
- Established: 1883
- History: Feroz Shah Kotla is one of India’s oldest stadiums and has seen some of the most dramatic moments in Indian cricket. The ground was the site of India’s historic 2005 victory over Pakistan. After being renamed Arun Jaitley Stadium in 2019, it continues to host international matches and remains a prominent venue for Delhi’s cricketing community.
- Established By: The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).
- Name Changes: Renamed to Arun Jaitley Stadium in 2019, honoring the former finance minister.
- Cricket Matches: 35 Test matches,31 ODIs, and 8 T20Is.
- Address: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110002.
3. M. A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), Chennai
- Established: 1916
- History: Chepauk, known for its spin-friendly pitch and vociferous crowd, has witnessed some of the most historic moments in Indian cricket, such as India’s first Test series win against England in 1952. It’s famous for hosting fiercely competitive domestic and international fixtures.
- Established By: Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA).
- Name Changes: Originally called “Chepauk Stadium,” renamed in honor of M. A. Chidambaram, the former TNCA president.
- Key Matches: 35 Test matches, 28 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.
- Address: M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005.
4. Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai
- Established: 1937
- History: Brabourne is one of Mumbai’s oldest cricket stadiums, having hosted its first Test match in 1948. It was once the home ground for the Indian team before Wankhede Stadium was built. The ground remains a central part of Mumbai’s cricketing history and has witnessed numerous key matches over the years.
- Established By: The Cricket Club of India (CCI).
- Cricket Matches: 18 Test matches, 9 ODIs, and 1 T20I.
- Address: Brabourne Stadium, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020.
5. Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
- Established: 1974
- History: The venue where India won the 2011 ICC World Cup, Wankhede Stadium has seen the nation’s cricketing triumphs firsthand. With a capacity of over 33,000, the stadium has hosted some of the most significant international and IPL matches in cricket history.
- Established By: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
- Cricket Matches: 27 Test matches, 28 ODIs, and 8 T20Is.
- Address: Wankhede Stadium, D Road, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020.
6. M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Established: 1962
- History: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for its exciting high-scoring games, particularly in limited-overs cricket. It has been the site of numerous thrilling encounters and is also home to the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore.
- Established By: Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
- Name Changes: Originally known as Bangalore Stadium, it was renamed after M. Chinnaswamy, a former KSCA president.
- Cricket Matches: 25 Test matches, 31 ODIs, and 10 T20s.
- Address: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.
7. Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
- Established: 1969
- History: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, known for its passionate fans, has hosted several memorable matches, including the 2003 World Cup and numerous IPL games. Its festive atmosphere is a big draw for both players and fans alike.
- Established By: Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA).
- Cricket Matches: 1 Test matches, 19 ODIs, and 1 T20Is.
- Address: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004.
8. Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
- Established: 1990
- History: Holkar Stadium, known for its smaller boundaries and high-scoring games, has earned a reputation as a venue where big runs are scored. Its capacity and atmosphere have made it a favorite for many cricketers.
- Established By: Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA).
- Cricket Matches: 3 Test matches, 7 ODIs and 4T20s
- Address: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Race Course Road, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452001.
9. Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad
- Established: 2003
- History: Known for its modern facilities, the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium has hosted numerous international and IPL matches. It is one of India’s premier venues, known for hosting the final of the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.
- Established By: Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA).
- Cricket Matches: 6 Test matches, 10 ODIs and 3 T20s
- Address: Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Uppal, Hyderabad, Telangana 500039.
10. Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali
- Established: 1993
- History: Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, this stadium has hosted numerous international fixtures, including the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 semi-finals. It is also the home ground for IPL’s Kings XI Punjab.
- Established By: Punjab Cricket Association (PCA).
- Name Changes: Initially named PCA Stadium, renamed to honor IS Bindra, a prominent figure in Indian cricket.
- Cricket Matches: 14 Test matches, 26 ODIs and 7 T20s
- Address: PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Sector 63, Mohali, Punjab 160062.
11. Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium, Visakhapatnam
- Established: 1986
- History: A venue known for its scenic backdrop and modern infrastructure, Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium has become one of the top destinations for ODIs and T20s in India.
- Established By: Andhra Cricket Association (ACA).
- Cricket Matches: 3 Test matches, 10 ODIs and 5 T20s
- Address: Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium, Madhurawada, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530041.
12. Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi
- Established: 1996
- History: The multi-purpose Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi has hosted numerous international cricket and football events. It is well-known for its vibrant crowds and excellent facilities.
- Established By: Kerala Cricket Association (KCA).
- Cricket Matches: 9 ODIs.
- Address: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kaloor, Kochi, Kerala 682017.
13. Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
- Established: 2013
- History: As one of the newer venues in India, Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot has quickly made a mark by hosting international matches and IPL games. It stands as a modern venue with world-class facilities.
- Established By: Saurashtra Cricket Association.
- Name Changes: Yes, old name Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium
- Cricket Matches: 3 Test matches, 3 ODIs and 5 T20s
- Address: Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Khandheri, Rajkot, Gujarat 360002.
14. Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Established: 1982; Renovated in 2020
- History: Formerly known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world. Following its renovation, it now hosts large-scale events, including the 2021 India-England Test series.
- Established By: Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).
- Name Changes: Formerly Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, renamed in 2021.
- Cricket Matches: 10+ Test matches, 20+ ODIs.
- Address: Narendra Modi Stadium, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Complex, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380013.
These stadiums have not only been the grounds for cricketing excellence but have also been the cultural hubs that have shaped the Indian cricketing spirit. Each of these venues holds its own unique legacy, contributing significantly to the sport in India and around the world.
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