Top 20 Famous Cricket Stadiums Around the World

Famous Cricket Stadiums. Cricket is a widely popular sport enjoyed and played by millions of individuals across the globe. And when it comes to playing in a stadium, the atmosphere and experience can be electrifying. From the historic Lord’s cricket ground in London to the state-of-the-art Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, cricket stadiums come in all shapes and sizes. 

  1. Lord’s Cricket Ground, London: 

This is one of the most famous cricket stadium in the world and is regarded as the home of cricket. It has hosted several historic matches, including the first-ever Test match in 1884. It has hosted many iconic moments in cricket history and has a capacity of over 28,000.

Historical Movement in Lord’s Cricket Ground

The famous “Botham’s Ashes” Test in 1981

The 1981 Ashes Test, famously referred to as “Botham’s Ashes,” is regarded as one of the most unforgettable moments in the history of Lord’s Cricket Ground. England’s Ian Botham produced a stunning performance, taking five wickets and scoring a century to lead England to a remarkable victory.

The first-ever Women’s Test match at Lord’s in 1934

In 1934, Lord’s Famous Cricket Stadiums Cricket Ground hosted England and Australia’s first-ever women’s Test match. This groundbreaking moment paved the way for women’s cricket to be recognized as an essential part of the sport, and Lord’s has since hosted numerous women’s matches and tournaments.

  1. Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

This Famous Cricket Stadiums is the largest cricket stadium in the world, with a seating capacity of 100,000. It has hosted several iconic matches, including the 1992 Cricket World Cup final and the ICC Cricket World Cup final in 2015.

Historical Movement in Melbourne Cricket

1975 World Cup Final

Famous Cricket Stadiums. The first-ever Cricket World Cup final was held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on June 21, 1975, where West Indies beat Australia by 17 runs to lift the trophy.

1981 Boxing Day Test

The infamous Test match between Australia and England during the 1981 Ashes series is the ‘Botham’s Ashes.’ Ian Botham and Bob Willis helped England secure an incredible victory against all odds.

1992 World Cup Final

The 1992 World Cup final at the MCG between Pakistan and England is remembered as a historic moment in cricket history, with Pakistan winning their first-ever World Cup trophy by defeating England by a margin of 22 runs.

2006 Commonwealth Games

The Melbourne Cricket Ground hosted the opening and closing ceremonies and the athletics events during the 2006 Commonwealth Games. The games saw participation from 71 countries and territories.

  1. Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney

Having hosted numerous historic matches, this Stadium is considered one of the oldest cricket stadiums in the world. The Australian cricket team also uses this ground as their home venue.

It has a capacity of over 46,000 and has hosted many important cricket matches.

Historical Movement in Sydney Cricket

1992 World Cup Final

Regarded as one of the most unforgettable matches in cricket history, the 1992 World Cup Final between Pakistan and England occurred at the MCG. Pakistan won their first and only World Cup title in front of a packed stadium.

2006 Commonwealth Games

In 2006, MCG hosted the Commonwealth Games opening and closing ceremonies, including the first-ever Twenty20 cricket match between Australia and New Zealand.

Highest Test Score

Matthew Hayden, a former Australian cricketer, made history at the MCG in 2003 by scoring an incredible 380 runs, setting the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket then.

  1. Eden Gardens, Kolkata

This Stadium, which can accommodate up to 66,000 spectators, is considered one of India’s most enormous cricket grounds and has hosted several legendary matches, such as the 1987 Cricket World Cup final.

Historical Movement in Eden Gardens, Kolkata

 The First Ever Test Match in India:

Eden Gardens hosted India’s first-ever test match against England in 1934. The match was a huge milestone in Indian cricketing history, and Eden Gardens became an iconic venue for cricket in the country.

The 1986 Tied Test:

The 1986 test match between India and Australia is remembered as one of the greatest test matches of all time. It was the first-ever tied test match in cricket history. Both teams delivered incredible performances in front of a packed Eden Gardens crowd, making the match an unforgettable experience for the spectators.

The 1996 World Cup Semifinal:

The 1996 World Cup semifinal between India and Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens is remembered for all the wrong reasons. After a poor start by India, the crowd turned hostile and began throwing objects onto the field. The incident remains a black mark on the history of Indian cricket and Eden Gardens.

  1. Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

The Mumbai Indians IPL team considers this Famous cricket Stadium their home ground, boasting a seating capacity of 33,000 spectators and having witnessed numerous thrilling matches over the years. It has hosted several memorable matches, including the 2011 Cricket World Cup final.

Historical Movement in Wankhede Stadium

2011 ICC World Cup Final

The Wankhede Famous Cricket Stadium in Mumbai played host to the final of the 2011 ICC World Cup, where India and Sri Lanka faced off in a thrilling encounter. Led by captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India emerged victorious, lifting the World Cup trophy for the first time in 28 years.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Retirement

Sachin Tendulkar bid an emotional farewell at the Wankhede Stadium, considered one of the greatest cricket stadiums and has hosted numerous historic matches. The Little Master bid adieu to international cricket in November 2013, drawing curtains on a legendary career that spanned 24 years.

West Indies Clinch 2016 ICC World T20

The Wankhede Stadium hosted the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 final, where the West Indies clashed against England. Carlos Brathwaite’s stunning last-over heroics saw the Windies lift their second T20 World Cup, setting off wild celebrations in the stands.

India Win 2012 ICC World T20

The Wankhede Stadium was the venue for the 2012 ICC World Twenty20 final, where India faced off against Sri Lanka. Inspired performances from Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh helped India clinch their first T20 World Cup title.

  1. Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

The Pakistan cricket team calls this Stadium their home, which boasts a seating capacity of 27,000 spectators. It has hosted several memorable matches, including the 1996 Cricket World Cup final.

Historical Movement in Gaddafi Stadium

The Construction of Gaddafi Stadium:

Gaddafi Stadium is a cricket stadium located in Lahore, Pakistan. It was built in 1959 and named after the former Libyan leader, Muammar Gaddafi. The Stadium was designed by the famous Pakistani architect Nayyar Ali Dada. It has a seating capacity of 27,000 and has hosted numerous international cricket matches and other sports and cultural events.

The 1996 Cricket World Cup

Pakistan was one of the tournament’s co-hosts, as were India and Sri Lanka. Gaddafi Stadium hosted five matches during the tournament, including the quarter-final match between Pakistan and India. India won the match, considered one of the most memorable matches in the history of cricket.

The Attack on Sri Lankan Cricket Team

Another significant event in the history of Gaddafi Stadium was the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in 2009. The Sri Lankan cricket team was touring Pakistan, and they were on their way to Gaddafi Stadium for a match when terrorists attacked their bus. “During a terrorist attack in 2009, seven individuals lost their lives, and six Sri Lankan team members were injured. However, in recent years, Pakistan has been able to host international matches at the Stadium again, and it remains a significant venue for cricket in Pakistan.

  1. Kensington Oval, Bridgetown

Kensington Oval is the home ground for the West Indies cricket team and has a seating capacity of 28,000. It has hosted several memorable matches, including the 2007 Cricket World Cup final.

Historical Movement in Kensington Oval

The First Test Match: 

Kensington Oval hosted its first Test match in 1930 when West Indies played against England. England won the match, but it marked the beginning of a long and storied history of Test cricket at the Stadium. Since then, Kensington Oval has hosted numerous Test matches, including several memorable ones, such as the tied Test between West Indies and Australia in 1999.

The 2007 Cricket World Cup Final

The 2007 Cricket World Cup Final, played between Australia and Sri Lanka, is considered one of the most iconic events in the history of Kensington Oval. The Stadium underwent significant renovations for the tournament, including adding a new stand and a new playing surface.

The Sir Garfield Sobers Pavilion

In 2002, Kensington Oval underwent a significant renovation, which included the construction of the Sir Garfield Sobers Pavilion.

  1. Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

This Stadium is one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world and has a seating capacity of 53,500. It has hosted several historic matches, including the famous tied Test match between Australia and the West Indies in 1960.

Historical Movement in Adelaide Oval

The First Test Match

England won the match, but it marked the beginning of a long and storied history of Test cricket at the Stadium. Since then, Adelaide Oval has hosted numerous Test matches, including the first-ever day-night Test match in 2015.

The 1932 Bodyline Test

A defining moment that will go down in the history of Adelaide Oval was the 1932 Bodyline Test.

The Redevelopment

In 2010, Adelaide Oval underwent a major redevelopment, which included the addition of a new stand and a complete overhaul of the playing surface. The redevelopment aimed to improve the Stadium’s facilities and make it a world-class venue for cricket and other sports. The new-look Adelaide Oval officially opened in 2014 and has since hosted numerous major international matches, including the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup.

  1. M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

This is the home ground of the Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL team and has a seating capacity of 38,000. It has hosted several memorable matches, including the 1996 Cricket World Cup quarter-final between India and Pakistan.

Historical Movements in M. Chinnaswamy Stadium

The 1987 Cricket World Cup

 A remarkable event in the history of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was the 1987 Cricket World Cup. The Stadium hosted several matches during the tournament, including the semifinal match between India and England. England won the match, but the achievement represented a noteworthy milestone in the annals of Indian cricket, being the inaugural instance where the Indian team advanced to the semifinals of a World Cup.

The High-Scoring Match

 M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for its high-scoring matches; several significant ones have been played at the Stadium. In 2013, the Stadium hosted a match between India and Australia, in which the two teams scored 720 runs, making it one of the highest-scoring matches in the history of cricket. The Stadium has also witnessed several notable individual performances, such as Chris Gayle’s record-breaking innings of 175 not out in the Indian Premier League.

  1. Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Sharjah Cricket Stadium, located in the UAE, has a seating capacity of 16,000 and is steeped in cricketing history. It has hosted many legendary matches, including the unforgettable India-Pakistan game in 1986 when Javed Miandad hit a last-ball six.

Historical Movement in Sharjah Cricket Stadium

The First International Match

On April 6, 1984, the Sharjah Cricket Stadium hosted its first international cricket match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This match marked the beginning of a new era in cricket, as the Stadium soon became known as one of the best cricket venues in the world.

The Desert Storm

On April 22, 1998, Sachin Tendulkar played one of the most memorable innings in cricket history at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. India needed to win the match against Australia to qualify for the final of the Coca-Cola Cup, and Tendulkar’s masterful 143 off 131 balls took India to a thrilling victory. The innings became known as the “Desert Storm” and remains etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide.

The Return of International Cricket

After a gap of nine years, international cricket returned to the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in 2015 with a series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe. This was a significant moment for the Stadium and cricket in the UAE, as it marked a return to the venue’s glory days as a hub for international cricket.

  1. Old Trafford, Manchester

Old Trafford Stadium, the home ground for the Lancashire cricket team, can accommodate up to 26,000 spectators. It has hosted many notable matches, such as the 2005 Ashes Test between England and Australia, one of the most thrilling cricket matches ever played.

Historical Movements in Old Trafford

The first Test match at Old Trafford

The first Test match played at Old Trafford was between England and Australia in 1884. It was a low-scoring match, with Australia winning by eight wickets. Since then, the ground has hosted many other Test matches, including the 2005 Ashes Test, where England secured a dramatic two-run victory over Australia.

The Boycott of South Africa 

In 1970, Old Trafford was due to host a Test match between England and South Africa. However, the South African government’s policy of apartheid meant that the touring team was selected on racial lines, and this caused controversy in England. The Test match was eventually called off, and South Africa was banned from international cricket for over two decades.

  1. Trent Bridge, Nottingham

Trent Bridge Stadium, the home ground of the Nottinghamshire cricket team, has a seating capacity of 17,500 and is famous for hosting many historical matches, including the very first Test match between England and Australia in 1899. 

Historical Movements in Trent Bridge

Hosting of the First Test Match

In 1899, Trent Bridge hosted its first Test match between England and Australia. The match ended in a draw, but it began a long history of hosting international cricket matches at the ground.

Transformation into a World-Class Venue

In the early 2000s, Trent Bridge underwent significant renovation and modernization, including adding floodlights and redeveloping the Radcliffe Road End stand. These improvements have transformed Trent Bridge into a world-class cricketing venue.

Hosting of ICC World Twenty20 Final

In 2009, Trent Bridge hosted the final of the ICC World Twenty20 tournament. Pakistan emerged as the champions, defeating Sri Lanka in a thrilling match down to the last ball.

  1. Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town

Newlands Cricket Stadium, known for its scenic beauty, is also the most stunning cricket ground globally, accommodating 25,000 spectators. The Stadium witnessed many historic matches, including the unforgettable tied Test match between South Africa and Australia in 2011.

Historical Movements in Newlands Cricket Ground

The 438 games.

In 2006, South Africa faced Australia in a One Day International at Newlands, which became one of the most unforgettable matches in cricket history. The match saw South Africa chasing a mammoth target of 434 and successfully reaching it, setting a new world record.

The Basil D’Oliveira Incident

In 1968, England was due to tour South Africa, but the selection of Basil D’Oliveira, a mixed-race cricketer, caused controversy as South Africa’s apartheid laws forbade mixed-race teams.

Centenary celebration

In 1990, Newlands celebrated its centenary with a memorable match between South Africa and England. It was a fitting tribute to the rich history of the Stadium.

  1. The Gabba, Brisbane

Gabba Famous Cricket Stadium, with a seating capacity of 42,000, provides the home ground for the Queensland cricket team. It is a popular venue for hosting international matches and has seen many memorable games. 

Historical Movements in The Gabba Stadium

Australia vs West Indies

The Gabba hosted its first-ever One Day International (ODI) match during the 1975 World Cup. The match saw an epic battle between the West Indies and Australia, with the West Indies winning by 5 wickets.

1994: Australia vs South Africa

The Gabba witnessed one of the most thrilling Test matches in history when Australia faced South Africa. With just 6 runs needed to win, South Africa lost their final wicket, resulting in a tie and leaving the series level at 1-1.

2010: Australia vs Pakistan 

Shane Watson became the first Australian to score a double century at the Gabba, helping Australia to secure a massive victory over Pakistan by an innings and 40 runs.

2021: India vs Australia

The Gabba hosted one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history, as India chased down 328 runs on the final day to win the series 2-1. This was India’s first Test victory at the Gabba and ended Australia’s unbeaten streak at the venue from 1988.

  1. Galle International Stadium, Galle

The Galle International Stadium in Sri Lanka has a seating capacity of 13,000 and is widely regarded as the most picturesque cricket ground globally. Its rich history includes hosting several significant matches, including the first-ever Test match in Sri Lanka in 1998. 

Historical Movements in The Galle International Stadium

Tsunami Disaster of 2004

In December 2004, the Galle International Famous Cricket Stadium was severely damaged by the Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 30,000 lives in Sri Lanka. The Stadium was later rebuilt and reopened in March 2007.

Muttiah Muralitharan’s record-breaking wicket

In 2010, Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan took his 800th Test wicket at the Galle International Stadium, becoming the first and only player to achieve this feat.

Pakistan’s first Test win in Sri Lanka

In 2000, Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by an inning and 175 runs at the Galle International Stadium, marking their first-ever Test win on Sri Lankan soil.

Sri Lanka’s first Test win against South Africa

In 2000, Sri Lanka recorded their first-ever Test victory against South Africa at the Galle International Stadium, winning 7 wickets.

  1. Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

Located in the UAE, this Stadium has a seating capacity of 25,000 and has been host to many international events, including the Indian Premier League. It’s contemporary design and state-of-the-art facilities provide an unparalleled experience for spectators. 

Historical Movements in Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Inaugural Match of Dubai International Cricket Stadium

The first match played in this Famous Cricket Stadiums was on April 22, 2009, between the Pakistan and Australia teams. The match was a part of the Pakistan-Australia ODI series.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Historic Century

Sachin Tendulkar became one of the first batsmen to score 100 international centuries during an Asia Cup match between India and Bangladesh on March 16, 2012, at the Dubai International Famous Cricket Stadium.

Chris Gayle’s Fastest T20 Century

Chris Gayle smashed a century off just 30 balls during a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Pune Warriors in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on April 23, 2013. It remains the fastest century in T20 cricket history.

Ireland’s First Test Victory

Ireland registered their first-ever Test victory by defeating Afghanistan by 5 wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 20, 2019. The win was a historic moment for Irish cricket, as they had achieved Test status only two years before.

Historical Movements in Basin Reserve

Bert Sutcliffe’s Record-breaking Innings

In 1955, New Zealand’s Bert Sutcliffe played a record-breaking innings at the Basin Reserve, scoring 355 not out against India. His score remains the highest individual innings by a New Zealand batsman in Test cricket.

First-ever Women’s Day-Night Tes

The Basin Reserve made history in 2021 by hosting the first-ever women’s day-night Test match. The match was played between New Zealand and England, and it marked a significant moment for women’s cricket.

Tied Test between New Zealand and West Indies

In 1969, the Basin Reserve witnessed an unforgettable moment in cricket history when New Zealand and West Indies played out a tied Test match. This was only the second-tied Test in the game’s history and remains one of the most memorable moments at the ground.

  1. The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

Wanderers’ Famous Cricket Stadium is the home ground for the Gauteng cricket team and has a seating capacity of 34,000. It has hosted several memorable matches, including the World Cup final of 2003 Cricket between Australia and India.

Historical Movements in The Wanderers Stadium

Nelson Mandela’s Freedom Speech (1990)

The Wanderer’s Famous Cricket Stadium was where Nelson Mandela gave his first speech in Johannesburg after his release from prison in 1990, marking a significant moment in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.

CWC 2003 Final – Australia vs India (2003)

The Wanderers Famous Cricket Stadiums hosted the 2003 Cricket World Cup final between Australia and India, considered the most memorable match in the tournament’s history.

Herschelle Gibbs’ Six Sixes (2006)

In 2006, South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs became the first player in international cricket to hit six sixes in an over during a match against the Netherlands at The Wanderers Stadium.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Double Century (2010)

The Wanderers Famous Cricket Stadiums witnessed a historic moment in 2010 when Indian batting legend He became the 1st  player to score a double century in a One Day International (ODI) match, achieving the feat against South Africa.

  1. Perth Stadium, Perth

Famous Cricket Stadiums. This Stadium is the largest in Western Australia and has a seating capacity of 60,000. It is a modern stadium with several international matches, including the third Test of the 2019 Ashes series.

Historical Movements in Perth Stadium

Big Bash League Final in 2020

On February 8, 2020, the Perth Stadium hosted the final of the Big Bash League between the Sydney Sixers and the Melbourne Stars. The Sydney Sixers emerged victorious, winning their second BBL title.

Indian Premier League Matches in 2020

In 2020, the Perth Famous Cricket Stadiums was the venue for the Indian Premier League (IPL).

  1. Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy

Pallekele Stadium is located in Sri Lanka and has a seating capacity of 35,000. This Stadium has hosted several memorable matches, including the 2011 Cricket World Cup match between Australia and Sri Lanka.

Historical Movements in Pallekele International Cricket Stadium

Conclusion

Cricket fans worldwide love several important Famous Cricket Stadiums that have hosted many cricket events. These stadiums include the top 20 worldwide.

Famous Cricket Stadiums. Whether it’s the iconic MCG or Lord’s, the scenic Newlands Cricket Ground or Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, each Stadium has its own charm and unique features that make it special. If you’re a cricket fan, visiting these stadiums should be on your bucket list!

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