Venue Description
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, commonly known as Chepauk, is one of India’s most iconic cricket grounds. Named after the former President of the BCCI and Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, MA Chidambaram, the stadium was established in 1916, making it the oldest continuously used cricket venue in India. Located in the Chepauk locality of Chennai, it has been a cornerstone of Indian cricket history.
Since 2008, the stadium has been the home ground of the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). It hosted its first international match in 1934, a Test between India and England, which the visitors won by 202 runs. Over the years, the stadium has undergone significant upgrades, including the addition of floodlights in 1996 and a major reconstruction in 2009 to enhance its facilities and increase seating capacity.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Chepauk is its passionate and knowledgeable crowd. Known for their unbiased support, the fans have applauded exceptional performances regardless of the team. For instance, Saeed Anwar received a standing ovation for his record-breaking 194 against India in 1997, and the Pakistani team was warmly appreciated after their Test victory in 1999, even taking a lap of honor to acknowledge the crowd’s respect.
FACTS
- Capacity: 50,000
- Known as: Chepauk; Madras Cricket Club Ground
- Ends: Anna Pavilion End, V Pattabhiraman Gate End
- Location: Chennai, India
- Time Zone: UTC +05:30
- Home to: Tamil Nadu, Chennai Super Kings
- Floodlights: Yes
Indian Premier League 2025 Matches Scheduled at the Venue
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs MI, 3rd Match
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs RCB, 8th Match
- 10:00 GMT: CSK vs DC, 17th Match
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs KKR, 25th Match
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs SRH, 43rd Match
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs PBKS, 49th Match
- 14:00 GMT: CSK vs RR, 63rd Match
Pitch Characteristics
The pitch at Chepauk has evolved over the years. Initially, it favored fast bowlers when the surfaces were uncovered and less maintained. However, with the rise of India’s legendary spin quartet—Bishan Singh Bedi, BS Chandrasekhar, S Venkataraghavan, and EAS Prasanna—the pitch was tailored to assist spinners. This tradition continues, with spinners dominating the wicket-takers’ list at the venue.
Among the top 10 wicket-takers at Chepauk, nine are spinners, with Anil Kumble leading the pack with 48 wickets, followed by Harbhajan Singh with 42. The only fast bowler in the list is Kapil Dev, highlighting the spin-friendly nature of the pitch.
Interesting Facts About Chepauk
- The first-ever Ranji Trophy match was played here in 1934, with AG Ram Singh of Madras taking an 11-wicket haul against Mysore.
- Chepauk hosted the famous Pongal (Harvest) Test, traditionally held in January.
- India registered their first-ever Test victory at this ground, defeating England by an innings and 8 runs in 1952.
- The second tied Test in cricket history occurred here in 1986, between India and Australia.
- Saeed Anwar set the record for the highest individual ODI score (194) at Chepauk in 1997, a record that stood for over a decade until Sachin Tendulkar scored 200 in 2010.
- Sunil Gavaskar surpassed Don Bradman’s record of 29 Test centuries at this venue.
- Sachin Tendulkar played one of his greatest Test innings here in 1999, scoring 136 against Pakistan despite battling back spasms, though India fell short by 12 runs.
Stats and Trivia
Test Match Stats
- Total Matches: 37
- Matches Won Batting First: 14
- Matches Won Bowling First: 10
- Average 1st Innings Score: 348
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 332
- Average 3rd Innings Score: 245
- Average 4th Innings Score: 157
- Highest Total Recorded: 759/7 by India vs England
- Lowest Total Recorded: 83/10 by India vs England
ODI Stats
- Total Matches: 39
- Matches Won Batting First: 18
- Matches Won Bowling First: 20
- Average 1st Innings Score: 229
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 208
- Highest Total Recorded: 337/7 by Asia XI vs Africa XI
- Lowest Total Recorded: 69/10 by Kenya vs New Zealand
- Highest Score Chased: 291/2 by West Indies vs India
- Lowest Score Defended: 171/10 by England vs South Africa
T20 Stats
- Total Matches: 10
- Matches Won Batting First: 6
- Matches Won Bowling First: 3
- Average 1st Innings Score: 151
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 127
- Highest Total Recorded: 189/4 by South Africa Women vs India Women
- Lowest Total Recorded: 80/10 by Pakistan Women vs England Women
- Highest Score Chased: 182/4 by India vs West Indies
- Lowest Score Defended: 103/8 by West Indies Women vs Pakistan Women
Chepauk remains a fortress for cricket, blending rich history, passionate fans, and memorable performances. Its spin-friendly pitch and electric atmosphere make it a unique and cherished venue in the world of cricket.
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