The ICC Cricket World Cup will take place in India from October 5 to November 19 – here are the venues, fixtures, and kickoff times.
The 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup is set to captivate millions of fans globally. The Indian subcontinent, where cricket is no less than a religion, boasts some of the most magnificent and historic stadiums in the world. Between Oct 5 and Nov 19, stadiums across the country will crackle with the anticipation and excitement of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, 2023. Right from Eden Gardens in Kolkata to Wankhade in Mumbai, and Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, the grounds will host cricketers battling it out for the glinting golden globe. What better way to feel the fever than to cheer for the Men in Blue at a stadium roaring with fans?
Let’s embark on a journey through the 10 iconic venues where the world’s best teams will battle for the coveted trophy.
Eden Gardens, Kolkata: Eden Gardens, located in the heart of Kolkata, stands as one of the most iconic and revered cricket stadiums in the world. Established in 1864, its rich history is intertwined with some of cricket’s most memorable moments, making it the Colosseum of the sport in India. With a seating capacity of over 68,000, the electrifying atmosphere created by its passionate crowd is unparalleled. This ground has borne witness to both triumphs and heartbreaks, from iconic test matches to thrilling ODIs and T20s. Beyond just cricket, the magnolia-laden surroundings and the iconic pagoda-style clubhouse give Eden Gardens an aesthetic charm. For many cricketers and fans alike, playing or watching a game here is a dream, a pilgrimage to the very soul of Indian cricket.
Also Read: 72 Hours in Kolkata – Travel and Food Guide
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai: The Wankhede Stadium, nestled amidst the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, is more than just a cricket ground; it’s a crucible of dreams and emotions for countless cricket aficionados. Established in 1974, this iconic venue, with a seating capacity of over 33,000, has witnessed many of cricket’s most defining moments, including India’s triumphant World Cup victory in 2011. The sea breeze, characteristic of its coastal location, often plays a pivotal role in the game’s dynamics, adding a unique element to matches played here. Renowned for its vociferous crowd and electrifying atmosphere, Wankhede is not just a stadium, but the heartbeat of Mumbai’s illustrious cricketing legacy.
Motera Stadium, Ahmedabad: The Motera Stadium, officially known as the Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad stands as a monumental testament to India’s commitment to the sport of cricket. With a jaw-dropping seating capacity of over 110,000, it holds the distinction of being the largest cricket stadium in the world. Established in 1983 and revamped in 2020, the modern Motera is a marvel of architectural and engineering brilliance, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It boasts spacious dressing rooms, indoor practice pitches, and advanced drainage systems to reduce rain delays. Strategically situated on the banks of the Sabarmati River, the stadium’s design ensures an unobstructed view of the field from any corner. With its colossal structure and iconic status, Motera has become an emblem of pride for cricket enthusiasts, offering an atmosphere that is unparalleled in its vibrancy and fervor. As the chosen venue for the ICC World Cup Final, Motera’s grandeur will be on full display to the world.
Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi: Formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi is one of the oldest and most storied cricket venues in India. Established in 1883, its heritage is rich with cricketing lore. Over the years, the ground has witnessed numerous historic feats, including Anil Kumble’s 10-wicket haul in a Test innings against Pakistan. With a seating capacity of over 40,000, the stadium offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities. The venue’s ambiance, combined with the passionate Delhi crowd, makes it a unique and unforgettable destination for players and fans alike. The stadium also serves as the home ground for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, ensuring its continued significance in the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cricket.
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore: Situated in the technological hub of India, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore is a jewel in the crown of Indian cricket. Established in the early 1970s, this iconic venue is named after M. Chinnaswamy, who served the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) for over four decades. With a capacity of around 40,000, the stadium has been a witness to numerous historic moments, including the epic tied Test between India and Australia in 1986. The stadium, with its modern facilities, vibrant electronic scoreboards, and renowned drainage system, is a favorite for international cricketers. As the home ground for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium regularly pulsates with energy, epitomizing the spirit of the sport in this dynamic city.
M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai: Enveloped in the coastal charm of Chennai, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, fondly known as Chepauk, is one of the most iconic and revered cricket venues in India. Established in 1916, it is amongst the oldest stadiums in the country and has borne witness to countless memorable moments in cricketing history. Named after M.A. Chidambaram, the former President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the stadium boasts a rich legacy intertwined with cricketing legends and epic duels. With a seating capacity of about 38,000, Chepauk has been the battleground for historic matches, including India’s first-ever Test victory in 1952. The stadium’s pitch traditionally offers a good balance, assisting both spinners and batsmen, making games here tactically intriguing.
Also Read: 72 hours in Chennai | Travel & Food Guide
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad: Nestled in Uppal, an eastern suburb of Hyderabad, the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium stands as an emblem of the city’s vibrant sporting culture. Established in 2003, the stadium is named in honor of the former Indian Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi. With a seating capacity of close to 40,000, it ranks among the larger cricket venues in India.
Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune: Nestled in the bustling city of Pune, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium is a modern-day cricketing marvel. Inaugurated in 2012, this state-of-the-art facility, located in Gahunje, showcases a blend of superior architectural design and top-tier amenities. With a seating capacity of around 37,000, the stadium has been a venue for numerous memorable domestic and international matches. Its pitch offers a balanced contest, ensuring both bowlers and batsmen have their opportunities, much to the delight of cricket purists.
Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow: The Ekana Cricket Stadium, officially christened as the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, stands as an architectural marvel in the culturally rich city of Lucknow. Opened to the public in 2017, this stadium beautifully marries modern design with the traditional ethos of Uttar Pradesh. Positioned within a sprawling area, the stadium boasts a robust seating capacity of over 50,000.
Also Read: Food Guide: What and Where to Eat in Lucknow
HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala: Set against the backdrop of the mesmerizing Dhauladhar mountain range, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamsala is undeniably one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world. Located at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level, this stadium offers a unique cricketing experience, blending the thrill of the sport with the serenity of nature. Inaugurated in 2003, the HPCA Stadium is a testament to the vision of bringing world-class cricket to this hilly region. With a seating capacity of around 23,000, the venue is comparatively smaller than many other international stadiums, but what it lacks in size, it more than compensates with its breathtaking views and pristine environment.
Each of these stadiums tells its unique story. From the iconic to the modern, from the massive coliseums to the cozy grounds, India’s diverse range of cricket venues reflects its deep-rooted love for the game. As teams gear up for the World Cup, these stadiums await to be filled with roars, cheers, and unforgettable memories. The 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup in India promises to be a celebration of cricket like no other.
ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Fixtures and full match schedule
The upcoming ICC World Cup, set to be held in India, is slated to commence on October 5, culminating with the championship match on November 19.
In the initial phase of the competition, a round-robin system will be adopted where every team will face each other once, tallying up to 45 encounters. Based on the results, the top four squads will move on to the semifinal round. The teams positioned first and fourth will clash in the inaugural semifinal on November 15 in Mumbai. Conversely, the squads finishing second and third will square off in the subsequent semifinal scheduled for November 16 in Kolkata.
Here are the details on the fixtures, kickoff times and venues for the tournament:
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