The world’s largest cricket stadium is Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, with a seating capacity of 132,000 spectators. Located in Motera, Gujarat, this venue surpassed the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the biggest cricket arena globally.
Built on 63 acres of land, the stadium was reconstructed and completed in February 2020. The world’s largest cricket stadium cost an estimated ₹800 crore (US$95 million) to build and serves as the home ground for India’s national cricket team.
The stadium features four dressing rooms, 11 center pitches, and two practice grounds. Its innovative design eliminates traditional pillars, providing unobstructed views for all spectators regardless of seating location.
| Stadium Ranking | Name | Location | Capacity | Year Built |
| 1st | Narendra Modi Stadium | Ahmedabad, India | 132,000 | 2020 |
| 2nd | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) | Melbourne, Australia | 100,024 | 1853 |
| 3rd | Eden Gardens | Kolkata, India | 68,000 | 1864 |
| 4th | Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International | Raipur, India | 65,000 | 2008 |
| 5th | Perth Stadium (Optus) | Perth, Australia | 61,266 | 2018 |
Narendra Modi Stadium: The World’s Largest Cricket Arena
Narendra Modi Stadium holds the distinction of being the world largest cricket stadium by capacity. Designed by architectural firm Populous and built by Larsen and Toubro, this venue revolutionized cricket infrastructure globally.
The stadium was originally called Motera Stadium and replaced the older Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium that hosted World Cups in 1987, 1996, and 2011. After the old stadium’s demolition in 2015, this magnificent structure rose on the same plot of land.
The inaugural international match at the world’s largest cricket stadium was a historic Day-Night Test between India and England in February 2021. This groundbreaking event showcased the stadium’s world-class facilities and modern amenities.
For detailed information about recent events and match schedules, visit ESPNcricinfo’s latest cricket news for comprehensive coverage and live updates.
Key Features of Narendra Modi Stadium:
- LED light system replacing traditional floodlights
- PTFE membrane roof designed for earthquake resistance
- Y-shaped support columns eliminating sight obstructions
- Indoor cricket academy and Olympic-size swimming pool
- 76 corporate boxes accommodating 25 persons each
- 55-room clubhouse for officials and dignitaries
Major Matches Hosted at World’s Largest Cricket Stadium
The world’s largest cricket stadium has hosted several marquee international events that showcased its capacity and infrastructure excellence.
In 2023, the venue hosted the ICC One Day International World Cup final between India and Australia. This match drew massive crowds, filling the stadium to near capacity and creating an electrifying atmosphere.
The stadium hosted five matches during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, including the opening game and the grand final. These high-profile fixtures demonstrated the venue’s capability to manage complex tournament operations seamlessly.
Narendra Modi Stadium regularly hosts Indian Premier League (IPL) finals, with Gujarat Titans playing as the home team. The 2022 IPL final saw Gujarat Titans defeat Rajasthan Royals in front of passionate home crowds.
For the latest match results and upcoming fixtures, check Cricbuzz match coverage for breaking news and live score updates.
The 2022 National Games of India were inaugurated at this venue under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence, showcasing the stadium’s multi-purpose capabilities.
Top 10 Largest Cricket Stadiums in the World
| Rank | Stadium | City | Country | Capacity |
| 1 | Narendra Modi Stadium | Ahmedabad | India | 132,000 |
| 2 | Melbourne Cricket Ground | Melbourne | Australia | 100,024 |
| 3 | Eden Gardens | Kolkata | India | 68,000 |
| 4 | Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International | Raipur | India | 65,000 |
| 5 | Perth Stadium | Perth | Australia | 61,266 |
| 6 | Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium | Hyderabad | India | 55,000 |
| 7 | Adelaide Oval | Adelaide | Australia | 53,583 |
| 8 | Greenfield International Stadium | Thiruvananthapuram | India | 50,000 |
| 9 | Ekana International Stadium | Lucknow | India | 50,000 |
| 10 | MA Chidambaram Stadium | Chennai | India | 50,000 |
Melbourne Cricket Ground: World’s Second-Largest Cricket Stadium
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) ranks as the second-largest cricket venue globally with a capacity of 100,024 spectators. Established in 1853, the MCG is one of the world’s oldest sports stadiums.
The MCG hosted the first Test match in 1877 and remains deeply embedded in Australian cricket history. World Cup finals in 1992 and 2015 showcased the venue’s capacity and significance to global cricket.
MCG Stadium Highlights:
- Established over 170 years ago
- Hosted Olympic Games (1956) and Commonwealth Games (2006)
- Annual Boxing Day Test is a cultural cornerstone
- 85-90 meter boundary creates unique playing conditions
- Recently renovated with modern facilities
The venue was the world’s largest cricket stadium until Narendra Modi Stadium surpassed it in 2020. Despite losing top spot, MCG remains iconic and beloved by players and fans worldwide.
Eden Gardens: India’s Historic Cricket Jewel
Eden Gardens in Kolkata ranks third among the world’s largest cricket stadiums with a capacity of 68,000. Established in 1864, this venue is the oldest cricket ground still in active use in India.
Known as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket,” Eden Gardens has hosted countless memorable moments. The most iconic was VVS Laxman’s unbeaten 281 against Australia in the 2001 Test match at Eden Gardens.
Eden Gardens Distinctive Features:
- Oldest cricket stadium in India
- Historic electronic scoreboard
- Located along the Hooghly River
- Hosted World Cup finals (1987, 2016)
- Home to Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL team)
- Passionate crowds and unique atmosphere
The stadium once accommodated over 95,000 spectators during the 1987 World Cup final between India and Australia. This legendary match cemented Eden Gardens’ place in cricket history.
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium
Located in Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh, this stadium ranks fourth among the world’s largest cricket venues. Opened in 2008, it accommodates approximately 65,000 spectators.
Named after freedom fighter Veer Narayan Singh Binjhwar, the stadium represents India’s commitment to spreading cricket infrastructure beyond traditional centers. It hosted India’s ODI against New Zealand in 2023, marking its first international match.
Stadium Characteristics:
- Capacity: 65,000 spectators
- Location: Chhattisgarh state, central India
- One of India’s largest boundary dimensions
- Modern facilities and training grounds
- Growing importance in Indian cricket
India’s Dominance in World’s Largest Cricket Stadiums
Interestingly, India dominates the rankings of the world’s largest cricket stadiums. Six of the top ten largest venues are located in India, reflecting the nation’s passion for cricket.
This dominance showcases India’s infrastructure development and commitment to enhancing cricket’s reach across the country. States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu have invested heavily in stadium development.
Indian Stadiums in Top 10:
- Narendra Modi Stadium (1st)
- Eden Gardens (3rd)
- Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International (4th)
- Rajiv Gandhi International (6th)
- Greenfield International (8th)
- Ekana International (9th)
- MA Chidambaram Stadium (10th)
Australia contributes three major stadiums to the global top ten list, highlighting the nation’s sporting infrastructure excellence and cricket tradition.
Architectural Innovations in Modern Cricket Stadiums
The world’s largest cricket stadium introduced several architectural innovations that revolutionized cricket venue design. The LED lighting system replaces traditional tower floodlights, reducing shadows on the playing surface.
The PTFE membrane roof is lightweight and separate from the seating structure, designed specifically for earthquake resistance in seismic zones. Y-shaped support columns eliminate traditional pillars that obstruct spectator views.
These engineering solutions create unobstructed sightlines from every seat while maintaining structural integrity and environmental sustainability. Modern stadiums now prioritize spectator experience alongside technical playing requirements.
Perth Stadium (Optus) opened in 2018 with similar innovations, hosting multiple sports and major cultural events. Its location near Fremantle Sea provides unique views and natural ventilation for spectators.
FAQs
What is the world’s largest cricket stadium by capacity?
Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, is the world’s largest cricket stadium with 132,000 seating capacity. Completed in 2020, it surpassed MCG in Australia as the global largest venue.
When did Narendra Modi Stadium open to the public?
Narendra Modi Stadium opened to the public in 2020 during the Namaste Trump event. Its first international match was a Day-Night Test between India and England in February 2021.
How much did building Narendra Modi Stadium cost?
Construction of Narendra Modi Stadium cost approximately ₹800 crore (US$95 million). The five-year reconstruction project completely transformed the older Sardar Patel Stadium on the same plot.
Which cricket matches have been held at Narendra Modi Stadium?
The stadium hosted the 2023 ICC World Cup final, five World Cup matches, 2022 and 2023 IPL finals, and regular India national team matches including Test, ODI, and T20 matches.
How many pitches are at Narendra Modi Stadium?
Narendra Modi Stadium features 11 center pitches and two practice grounds. The venue also has training facilities and can host domestic matches on multiple grounds simultaneously.
What makes Narendra Modi Stadium different from other cricket stadiums?
The stadium uses LED lighting instead of floodlights, features an earthquake-resistant roof, and uses Y-shaped columns to eliminate sight obstructions. These innovations make it architecturally unique globally.
Is Narendra Modi Stadium the largest stadium in the world overall?
Yes, Narendra Modi Stadium is the world’s largest stadium by capacity across all sports, not just cricket. No other stadium globally accommodates more spectators.
Which stadiums rank in the top 3 largest cricket stadiums?
The top three largest cricket stadiums are Narendra Modi Stadium (132,000), Melbourne Cricket Ground (100,024), and Eden Gardens (68,000). All three have hosted World Cup matches.
Future of Cricket Stadium Infrastructure
The world largest cricket stadium sets the benchmark for future venue development. Modern designs prioritize fan experience, player safety, and architectural innovation.
Emerging cricket nations are investing heavily in stadium infrastructure. This expansion spreads cricket’s reach while creating employment and economic opportunities in developing regions.
Sustainability has become crucial in stadium design, with rainwater harvesting, solar power, and eco-friendly materials becoming standard. Greenfield International Stadium in Kerala exemplifies this green approach.
Legacy and Global Impact
Narendra Modi Stadium represents cricket’s evolution into a globally competitive sport with world-class infrastructure. The venue attracts international teams and showcases India’s organizational capabilities.
The stadium’s success has inspired similar projects across India and neighboring cricket-playing nations. Governments recognize sports infrastructure as crucial for national development and citizen engagement.
The world largest cricket stadium continues hosting historic moments that define cricket’s legacy. From World Cups to IPL finals, each event adds to the venue’s legendary status.
