Introduction
The Wankhede Stadium, though younger than iconic grounds like Chepauk, Eden Gardens, and Feroz Shah Kotla, has carved out its own legacy in Indian cricket. Known for its electrifying atmosphere and rich history, it has been home to some of the greatest cricketers to have represented India.
Venue History
Mumbai has hosted Test matches at three different venues. The first Test in India was played at the Bombay Gymkhana in 1933-34 against England. After World War II, the Cricket Club of India’s (CCI) Brabourne Stadium became the city’s primary cricket ground. However, a dispute between the CCI and the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) over ticket allocation led to the construction of a new stadium. Named after MCA president Barrister Sheshrao Krishnarao Wankhede, the stadium was inaugurated in 1974. The first Test match here was played in the 1974-75 season when West Indies toured India.
Venue Description
The Wankhede Stadium features seven stands: Sunil Gavaskar Stand, North Stand, Vijay Merchant Stand, Sachin Tendulkar Stand, MCA Pavilion, Divecha Pavilion, and Garware Pavilion.
In 1996, the stadium underwent its first major upgrade, with the installation of floodlights to facilitate day-night matches. A second renovation took place in 2010-11 ahead of the 2011 World Cup, during which the stadium was temporarily closed. The upgrades included the addition of suspended cantilever roofs, which provide unobstructed views for spectators, and 20 elevators for the North and South stands. The installation of bucket seats reduced the stadium’s capacity to around 33,000.
How Does the Pitch Play?
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium offers assistance to both pacers and spinners. Its proximity to the Arabian Sea aids swing bowlers, particularly in the early hours of a match. However, as the game progresses, the pitch tends to ease out, favoring batsmen. In Test matches, the surface often becomes a spinner’s paradise in the later stages. The venue is renowned for producing high-scoring and entertaining T20 matches.
FACTS
- Opened: 1974
- Capacity: 33,000
- Ends: Garware Pavilion End, Tata End
- Location: Mumbai, India
- Time Zone: UTC +05:30
- Home to: Mumbai, Mumbai Indians
- Floodlights: Yes
- Curator: Sudhir Naik
Indian Premier League 2025 Matches Scheduled at the Venue
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs KKR, 12th Match
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs RCB, 21st Match
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs SRH, 33rd Match
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs CSK, 38th Match
- 10:00 GMT: MI vs LSG, 45th Match
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs GT, 56th Match
- 14:00 GMT: MI vs DC, 66th Match
Trivia
- Bangladesh recorded the lowest ODI total at the stadium, scoring just 115 against India in 1998.
- Ravi Shastri hit six sixes in an over off Baroda’s Tilak Raj during his record-breaking double-century in first-class cricket at this ground in 1984-85.
Stats and Trivia
Test Match Stats
- Total Matches: 29
- Matches Won Batting First: 12
- Matches Won Bowling First: 9
- Average 1st Innings Score: 331
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 335
- Average 3rd Innings Score: 206
- Average 4th Innings Score: 128
- Highest Total Recorded: 631/10 by India vs England
- Lowest Total Recorded: 62/10 by New Zealand vs India
ODI Stats
- Total Matches: 37
- Matches Won Batting First: 20
- Matches Won Bowling First: 17
- Average 1st Innings Score: 255
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 205
- Highest Total Recorded: 438/4 by South Africa vs India
- Lowest Total Recorded: 55/10 by Sri Lanka vs India
- Highest Score Chased: 293/7 by Australia vs Afghanistan
- Lowest Score Defended: 192/9 by West Indies vs India
T20 Stats
- Total Matches: 13
- Matches Won Batting First: 6
- Matches Won Bowling First: 7
- Average 1st Innings Score: 178
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 156
- Highest Total Recorded: 247/9 by India vs England
- Lowest Total Recorded: 80/10 by India Women vs England Women
- Highest Score Chased: 230/8 by England vs South Africa
- Lowest Score Defended: 143/6 by West Indies Women vs New Zealand Women
The Wankhede Stadium remains a symbol of Mumbai’s cricketing heritage, offering a perfect blend of history, modern facilities, and thrilling matches. Its vibrant atmosphere and iconic moments make it a cherished venue for players and fans alike.
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