Top 20 Biggest Cricket Stadiums in the World: Seating Capacity

Cricket is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. It is a game that transcends boundaries and unites people in their love for the sport. As the popularity of cricket has grown, so has the demand for larger and more impressive stadiums to host the matches. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 largest cricket stadiums globally, each with its own unique features and history.

Discovering the World’s Top 10 Largest Cricket Stadiums

Cricket stadiums have evolved over time, with seating capacities increasing to accommodate more spectators. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 largest cricket stadiums in the world, starting with the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. This stadium boasts a seating capacity of 132,000, making it the largest cricket stadium globally. Other notable stadiums include the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur. These stadiums have become iconic venues for cricket matches, hosting historic events and providing unforgettable experiences for fans.

List of World’s Largest Cricket Stadiums

1. Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India

The Narendra Modi Stadium, formerly known as the Sardar Patel Stadium, is the largest cricket stadium in the world. Located in Ahmedabad, India, it has a seating capacity of 132,000. The stadium was recently renovated and expanded to accommodate a larger number of spectators. Spread across 63 acres, it is not only the largest cricket stadium but also one of the most modern and technologically advanced. The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including four player dressing rooms and 11 center pitches. One of the unique features of the Narendra Modi Stadium is the surrounding LED lights on the roof, which create a mesmerizing spectacle during night matches. With its impressive seating capacity and modern amenities, the Narendra Modi Stadium has become a symbol of India’s love for cricket and its commitment to hosting world-class sporting events.

2. Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is not only one of the largest cricket stadiums in the world but also one of the most iconic. Located in Melbourne, Australia, it has a seating capacity of 100,024. The MCG has witnessed numerous historic cricket matches, including multiple Cricket World Cup finals. It is also known for its close proximity to Yarra Park, where fans can gather before and after matches. The MCG has a rich history and has hosted various sporting events, including the 1956 Summer Olympics and the 2006 Commonwealth Games. With its impressive size and historic significance, the Melbourne Cricket Ground continues to attract cricket lovers from around the world.

3. Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India

Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, is not only the second-largest stadium in India but also one of the oldest cricket stadiums in the world. With a seating capacity of 68,000, it has a rich history and has witnessed numerous historic cricket matches. Known as the “Mecca of Indian cricket,” Eden Gardens has hosted memorable matches, including the 1987 World Cup final and multiple Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. The stadium is famous for its electric atmosphere during matches, with passionate fans filling the stands and creating a vibrant ambiance. Eden Gardens is a testament to India’s love for cricket and its rich cricketing heritage.

4. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur, India

The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, also known as the Naya Raipur Cricket Stadium, is one of the largest cricket stadiums in the world. Located in Raipur, India, it has a seating capacity of 65,400. The stadium was established in 2008 and has since hosted various domestic and international cricket matches. It has also been the home ground for the Delhi team during the Indian T20 League. With its impressive seating capacity and modern facilities, the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium has become a prominent venue for cricket in India.

5. Perth Stadium, Perth, Australia

Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium, is a multi-purpose stadium located in Perth, Western Australia. It is one of the largest cricket stadiums in Australia, with a seating capacity of 61,266. The stadium was officially opened in 2018 and has since become a popular venue for cricket matches. In addition to cricket, Perth Stadium also hosts Australian rules football and other sporting events. It can be expanded to accommodate up to 65,000 seats for Australian rules football matches. The stadium’s modern design and impressive seating capacity make it a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts in Australia.

6. Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad, India

The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, located in Hyderabad, India, is one of the largest cricket stadiums in the world. With a seating capacity of 55,000, it has hosted numerous domestic and international cricket matches. The stadium was named after former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and has become a popular venue for cricket in the country. The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is equipped with modern facilities and offers a great viewing experience for spectators. It has witnessed many memorable matches and has become a symbol of Hyderabad’s love for cricket.

7. Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Australia

The Adelaide Oval, located in Adelaide, Australia, is one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world. With a seating capacity of 53,583, it has hosted numerous historic cricket matches, including Ashes tests and One Day Internationals. The stadium has undergone significant renovations over the years, transforming it into a state-of-the-art sporting facility. In addition to cricket, the Adelaide Oval also hosts Australian rules football and other sporting events. The picturesque setting and rich cricketing history make it a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts in South Australia.

8. Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, India

The Greenfield International Stadium, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is one of the largest cricket stadiums in India. With a seating capacity of 50,000, it has hosted several domestic and international cricket matches. The stadium is known for its picturesque setting and scenic views of the city. It is also a multi-purpose stadium and has hosted various other sporting events and cultural festivals. The Greenfield International Stadium is a testament to Kerala’s passion for cricket and its commitment to providing world-class sporting facilities.

9- Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, India

The Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, India, is a multi-purpose stadium that is primarily used for Cricket matches. However, it has also hosted several Football matches. With a seating capacity of 50,000, it is one of the largest stadiums in India. The stadium’s unique design and modern facilities make it a popular venue for sporting events. The Ekana Cricket Stadium is a testament to the versatility of stadiums and their ability to host multiple sports.

10. Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, India

The Brabourne Stadium, located in Mumbai, India, is a multi-purpose stadium that has hosted several cricket matches, including Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. With a seating capacity of 50,000, it is one of the largest cricket stadiums in India. The stadium is known for its modern facilities and has become a popular venue for various sporting events. In addition to cricket, the Stadium also hosts football matches and other cultural events. It is a testament to the versatility of stadiums and their ability to cater to different sports and entertainment activities.

Some Other Notable Stadiums in the World

11- M. A. Chidambaram Stadium – Chepauk Stadium

The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, commonly referred to as Chepauk Stadium or Madras Cricket Club Ground, was named after a former president of the BCCI and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. Established in 1916, it is recognized as India’s second-oldest cricket stadium, following Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The stadium, owned by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, can accommodate 50,000 spectators, ranking it among the top ten largest cricket stadiums in the world. It serves as the home ground for both the Tamil Nadu cricket team and the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). As of September 2022, it had hosted 34 Test matches, 22 One Day Internationals (ODIs), 2 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), and 67 IPL matches.

Notably, in 1986, the stadium hosted an India-Australia match that became the second tied Test in cricket history.

12- JSCA International Cricket Stadium – Ranchi, India

The Jharkhand States Cricket Association International Cricket Stadium, previously known as the JSCA International Stadium Complex, is located in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Opened in 2010 and inaugurated in January 2013, this technologically advanced stadium can hold around 50,000 spectators, making it one of the largest cricket venues globally. It is owned by the JSCA and serves as the home ground for the Jharkhand cricket team, as well as a secondary venue for the Chennai Super Kings.

The first ODI at this stadium was played between India and England on January 19, 2013. It has also hosted a handful of IPL matches and, as of September 2022, has held 2 Tests, 5 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.

13- Docklands Stadium – Marvel Stadium

Previously known as Colonial Stadium, Telstra Dome, and Etihad Stadium, the Docklands Stadium has been called Marvel Stadium since 2018, following a partnership with the Walt Disney Company. This unique venue, opened in 2000, is the only roofed cricket stadium in the world. With a capacity of approximately 48,000, it serves as a home ground for the Australian cricket team. Historically, the Docklands has hosted T20 matches, rugby, and football events, as well as some Big Bash League games.

As of September 2022, it has hosted 12 ODIs but has yet to welcome a Test or T20 match.

14- Sydney Cricket Ground – A Premier Sporting Venue

The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), established in 1886, is one of the largest cricket stadiums globally, located on the outskirts of Sydney’s central business district and surrounded by parklands. Managed by the Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground Trust, the SCG has a capacity of around 48,000 and serves as the home ground for the Australian national team, the New South Wales cricket team, and the Sydney Sixers of the Big Bash League (BBL).

The historic venue has hosted a multitude of events, including cricket, Australian Rules Football, rugby, soccer, and concerts. By September 2022, the SCG had hosted 280 international matches, comprising 110 Tests, 159 ODIs, and 11 T20Is.

15- Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium

Located in Nagpur, the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, also known as the New VCA Stadium, is one of India’s largest cricket grounds, spanning 33 acres. Built in 2008, it is known for its outstanding infrastructure and facilities. With a seating capacity of 45,000, it ranks 14th among the world’s largest cricket stadiums and is owned by the Vidarbha Cricket Association.

The VCA Stadium hosts home matches for the Vidarbha and Central Zone teams. Its first Test was played in 2008 between India and Australia, and it has since hosted several international matches. As of September 2022, the stadium had held 6 Tests, 9 ODIs, and 12 T20Is.

16- Barabati Stadium

Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium is one of India’s oldest cricket venues, built in 1958 and named after the historical Barabati Fort. Owned and operated by the Orissa Cricket Association, the stadium can accommodate 45,000 spectators, making it one of the largest cricket venues in the world. It regularly hosts international matches and serves as the home ground for the Odisha cricket team.

The Barabati Stadium has seen numerous domestic and international matches, gaining popularity among cricketers. As of September 2022, it has hosted 2 Tests, 20 ODIs, and 3 T20Is, including the memorable match where Kapil Dev took his 300th wicket against Sri Lanka.

17- The Gabba – An Iconic Venue

The Gabba, also known as the Brisbane Cricket Ground, is a premier sports stadium in Brisbane primarily used for Australian football and cricket. Established in 1895, it is named after the Woolloongabba suburb. With a capacity of 42,000, it is one of the largest cricket stadiums worldwide, owned by the Queensland Government, and serves as the home ground for Queensland Cricket, Brisbane Heat, and Queensland Bulls.

The Gabba has hosted various sports, including rugby and soccer, and is particularly favored by fast bowlers due to its excellent bounce and pace. By September 2022, it had hosted 65 Tests, 78 ODIs, and 5 T20Is.

18- Arun Jaitley Stadium – India’s Second Oldest Stadium

The Arun Jaitley Stadium, formerly known as Feroz Shah Kotla, is India’s second oldest international cricket venue. Renamed after the late Arun Jaitley, a veteran BJP leader and former Union minister, the stadium was established in 1883 and has undergone significant renovations. Owned by the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA), it has a seating capacity of 41,820, making it one of the largest cricket stadiums globally.

The Arun Jaitley Stadium is home to the Delhi Ranji team and the Delhi Capitals IPL team, having been a favorite for the Indian cricket team. As of September 2022, it has hosted 34 Tests, 25 ODIs, 7 T20Is, and 77 IPL matches.

19- Eden Park – New Zealand’s Largest Stadium

Eden Park, previously known as Eden Park No. 1, is ranked 16th among the world’s largest cricket stadiums. Established in 1900, it has a seating capacity of 41,000 and is owned by the Eden Park Trust Board.

As the home of Auckland Cricket and Auckland Rugby, Eden Park provides an unmatched atmosphere for live sports in New Zealand. It has a rich history of successful events, including the 1992 and 2015 Cricket World Cups. As of September 2022, the stadium had hosted 155 international matches, including 50 Tests, 79 ODIs, and 26 T20Is.

20- Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium

Also known as the ACA (Assam Cricket Association) Stadium and Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium is a prominent venue in Northeast India. Named in 2010 after the late Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, a celebrated poet and musician, the stadium was built in 2012 and is owned by the Assam Cricket Association. With a seating capacity of 40,000, it ranks among the world’s largest cricket stadiums.

The stadium serves as the home ground for the Assam cricket team and has hosted various domestic and international matches. As of September 2022, it has held 1 ODI and 2 T20Is but has yet to host an international Test match.

21- M. Chinnaswamy Stadium – India’s First Solar-Powered Stadium

Located in Bengaluru, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, formerly known as the Karnataka State Cricket Association Stadium, is a prominent cricket venue in India. Established in 1969, it has a capacity of 40,000 spectators and is the first stadium in India to utilize solar panels for energy needs.

The stadium is home to the Karnataka cricket team and the IPL’s Royal Challengers Bangalore and has witnessed many memorable moments in cricket history. By September 2022, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium had hosted 24 Tests, 30 ODIs, 9 T20Is, and 79 IPL matches.

Unique Features of Each Stadium

Each of the top 10 largest cricket stadiums in the world has its own unique features that set it apart. From architectural marvels to historical significance, these stadiums offer something special to fans and players alike. For example, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is the only cricket stadium in the world with 4 player dressing rooms and 11 center pitches. The Melbourne Cricket Ground is known for its close proximity to Yarra Park, while Eden Gardens is famous for its electric atmosphere during matches. These unique features add to the overall experience of watching a cricket match in these stadiums.

Architectural Marvels and Design Innovations

The world’s largest cricket stadiums are not just impressive in terms of seating capacity, but also in terms of their architectural design and innovative features. Here are some examples of the architectural marvels and design innovations found in these stadiums:

• The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad boasts a unique surrounding LED lighting system on the roof instead of conventional tower floodlights.
• The Melbourne Cricket Ground features a skywalk connection that offers panoramic views of the city.
• The Perth Stadium in Australia has an impressive design with a lightweight fabric roof and a bronze facade.
• The Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata has a unique architecture with a blend of modern and traditional elements.
• These stadiums demonstrate the creativity and innovation that goes into designing world-class cricket stadiums, creating memorable experiences for fans and players alike.

Historical Matches and Events

The top 10 largest cricket stadiums have not only witnessed historic matches but have also hosted significant events in the cricketing world. Here are some examples of the historical matches and events held in these stadiums:

• The Melbourne Cricket Ground has hosted multiple Cricket World Cup finals, including the 1992 and 2015 editions.
• Eden Gardens in Kolkata witnessed the epic match between India and Australia in the 2001 Test series, known as the “Greatest Test Match of All Time.”
• The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur has hosted international matches, contributing to the growth of cricket in Chhattisgarh.
• These stadiums have become iconic venues for cricket, with their rich history and the memories created during these historic matches and events.

Comparing Seating Capacities and Ground Sizes

The seating capacities and ground sizes of cricket stadiums vary across the world. Larger stadiums can accommodate a larger number of spectators, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere during matches. The seating capacity of the top 10 largest cricket stadiums ranges from 132,000 in the Narendra Modi Stadium to 53,583 in the Adelaide Oval. The ground sizes also vary, with some stadiums having larger playing areas than others. These differences in seating capacities and ground sizes contribute to the unique characteristics of each stadium and the overall experience of watching a cricket match.

How Stadium Capacities Impact Game Atmosphere

The seating capacity of a cricket stadium plays a crucial role in creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere during matches. A larger seating capacity allows for a larger number of spectators, which in turn creates a more electric and enthusiastic environment. The cheers and chants of the crowd can motivate the players and add to the overall excitement of the game. Additionally, a packed stadium can create a sense of unity and camaraderie among the fans, further enhancing the game atmosphere. The top 10 largest cricket stadiums, with their impressive seating capacities, provide the perfect setting for thrilling matches and unforgettable experiences for both players and fans.

The Evolution of Stadium Sizes Over Time

Cricket stadiums have evolved over time, with their sizes increasing to accommodate larger crowds and meet the growing demands of the sport. The top 10 largest cricket stadiums in the world are a testament to this evolution. Here is a comparison of the seating capacities of these stadiums:

These numbers highlight the significant increase in stadium sizes over time, allowing more fans to enjoy the sport and creating a more immersive experience for both players and spectators.

Key Takeaways

• The world’s largest cricket stadium is Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, with a seating capacity of 132,000.
• Other top cricket stadiums include the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur.
• These stadiums have hosted historic matches and events, contributing to the rich history of cricket worldwide.
• The seating capacity of these stadiums has increased over time to accommodate the growing number of cricket enthusiasts and create an electrifying atmosphere during matches.
• The architectural marvels and design innovations of these stadiums make them unique and visually stunning.
• Historical matches and events held in these stadiums have left a lasting impact on the cricket world.

World’s Largest Cricket Stadiums FAQs

1- Which of these stadiums has the largest seating capacity?

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, has the largest seating capacity among the top 10 largest cricket stadiums. It can accommodate 132,000 spectators, making it the largest cricket stadium in the world.

2- Are there any stadiums that host other sports or events?

Yes, some of the top 10 largest cricket stadiums are multi-use stadiums that host other sports and events. For example, the Perth Stadium in Australia hosts Australian rules football, while the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, India, has hosted both cricket and football matches.

3- How do these stadiums contribute to their local communities?

These stadiums contribute to their local communities by hosting cricket matches, which attract tourists and fans from around the world. This not only boosts the local economy but also provides opportunities for community engagement and fosters a sense of pride and unity among the locals.