Top 10 Largest Cricket Stadiums In The World By Boundary And Capacity

Cricket is a sport that draws massive crowds in several countries around the world. The atmosphere and electricity at jam-packed cricket stadiums is simply unmatched. Over the years, many legendary cricket grounds have been built with huge capacities to satiate their cricket-crazy fans.

In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 largest cricket stadiums globally in terms of seating capacity and boundary sizes. We will also highlight some key facts and historical details about these magnificent cricketing arenas that witness history being scripted every time a match takes place.

So let’s begin our countdown of the biggest and grandest cricket stadiums on the planet!

1. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

• Capacity: 1,00,024
• Boundary Size: 85m X 125m

The largest cricket ground in the world is the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) situated in Australia. The MCG was built in 1853 and has gone on to host some of the most memorable moments in cricketing history.

Some key facts about this magnificent stadium:

• The MCG is home to Australian cricket and also hosts AFL, football and concerts.
• It has hosted the 1956 Olympics and 2006 Commonwealth Games opening ceremonies.
• The MCG has witnessed several historic cricket matches like the 1992 World Cup final and Australia’s famous Ashes wins.
• The boundaries are unusually large by modern standards making it tougher for big hits.
• It boasts state-of-the-art facilities for players and optimal comfort for crowds.
• The atmosphere at a packed MCG is simply electrifying for any match.

2. Narendra Modi Stadium

• Capacity: 1,32,000
• Boundary Size: 75m x 85m

Previously known as Motera Stadium, the newly reconstructed Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India is currently the world’s largest cricket facility with a staggering capacity of 1,32,000 spectators.

Some fascinating facts:

• Constructed at a cost of ₹800 crore, it is the largest cricket stadium ever built.
• Has a huge in-house clubhouse with 55 rooms, an Olympic-size swimming pool and 76 corporate boxes.
• Has state-of-the-art dressing rooms and world-class player facilities.
• Hosted the famous ‘Namaste Trump’ event in 2020 with over 1 lakh people.
• Has already hosted some massively attended IPL matches since inauguration in 2021.
• The atmosphere for an India game here is expected to be absolutely electric!

3. Eden Gardens

• Capacity: 66,349
• Boundary Size: 75m X 66m

If MCG is the Mecca of Australian cricket, Eden Gardens in Kolkata is undoubtedly the spiritual home of Indian cricket. Built in 1864, it is not only the largest cricket stadium in India but also one of the most iconic globally.

Some key details:

• Eden Gardens is renowned for its rowdy, passionate crowds that cheer and roar non-stop during matches.
• It has hosted some all-time classic India matches like the 2001 epic India-Australia test and 1987 World Cup final.
• Sunil Gavaskar scored his 10,000th test run and Kapil Dev claimed his 432nd test wicket here.
• Floodlighting was first introduced in 1993 during the India-England series.
• It underwent a major complete renovation recently which has enhanced seating and facilities.
• The electric and deafening roar of a capacity Eden Gardens crowd remains unmatched.

Also Check: Top 8 Most Beautiful Cricket Stadiums In The World

4. Optus Stadium

• Capacity: 60,000
• Boundary Size: 80m X 94m

The Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia was opened in 2018 and is currently the largest cricket stadium down under after the MCG. This state-of-the-art venue has quickly become Australia’s premier cricket facility.

Some salient features:

• Hosted its first test in 2018 when Australia defeated India in a thrilling contest.
• Was the first stadium in Australia to have an LED light system instead of traditional floodlights.
• The huge open concourses allow for better crowd movement and concession stands.
• Hosted a women’s T20I triangular series involving Australia, England and India in 2020.
• Has a capacity of over 60,000 along with 150 corporate suites.
• The excellent lighting and acoustics create a vibrant atmosphere for night matches.

5. Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium

• Capacity: 55,000
• Boundary Size: 76m X 74m

The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad is the largest cricket stadium in southern India. Since hosting its first international match in 2010, the stadium has regularly hosted many high-profile contests.

Here are some key details:

• It achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest cricketing attendance during an ODI between India and Australia in 2013.
• Hosted the first test match in 2017 when India took on Australia in a thrilling encounter.
• The ends are named after Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara, with their quotes displayed on the sidelines.
• Packed to capacity, the stadium provides one of the noisiest atmospheres for visiting teams to contend with.
• Regularly hosts IPL matches with the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise playing here.
• Offers great facilities like in-house gymnasiums, restaurants, pool tables etc.

6. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium

• Capacity: 49,000
• Boundary Size: 77m X 70m

Inaugurated in 2017, this modern facility in Raipur is the largest cricket stadium in Central India. It has already hosted several international and IPL fixtures.

Some interesting facts:

• Known for its sporting pitch which offers even contest between bat and ball.
• Hosted Afghanistan’s first ever test match in 2018 against India.
• Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh was an iconic figure in the Indian rebellion of 1857.
• Designed as a state-of-the-art green stadium with great attention to sustainability.
• Has hosted women’s international matches as well in addition to men’s games.
• Provides an intimate yet energetic experience for crowds with its compact stands.

7. Newlands Cricket Ground

• Capacity: 25,000
• Boundary Size: 82m X 69m

Situated in the picturesque city of Cape Town, Newlands Cricket Ground is regarded as the most scenic cricket venue in South Africa. It has hosted over 100 test matches played by South Africa.

Here are some fascinating facts:

• The first ODI hat-trick by a South African bowler was taken here by JP Duminy in 2011.
• Hosted the first ever T20 international between South Africa and Australia in 2006.
• Newlands is overlooked by the Table Mountain providing a stunning backdrop.
• It went through major upgrades like installing floodlights and replacing the media centre in preparation for the 2003 World Cup.
• South Africa recorded their highest successful ODI run chase here scoring 438-9 against Australia in 2006.
• The capacity may be relatively smaller but the Newlands crowd generates extremely noisy support.

8. Gaddafi Stadium

• Capacity: 27,000
• Boundary Size: 74m X 71m

The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan was originally named Lahore Stadium before being renamed in 1974. It is an iconic venue in Pakistan having hosted several historical matches.

Some key details:

• Pakistan made its first test victory here against New Zealand way back in 1955.
• Sri Lanka recorded its first ever test win here when they beat Pakistan in 1985.
• Imran Khan achieved his best bowling figures of 8/60 against India at this venue in 1982.
• Underwent major redesign and upgrading of facilities in 2007 to meet international standards.
• Hosted the 1996 World Cup final where Sri Lanka memorably beat Australia.
• The stadium provides an electrifying and boisterous atmosphere when filled to capacity.

9. Sheikh Zayed Stadium

• Capacity: 27,000
• Boundary Size: 85m X 78m

Opened in 2004, the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi has emerged as a world-class cricket venue in the UAE. Its excellent facilities have made it a neutral host venue of choice.

Here are some salient features:

• Hosted the first ever day-night test match between Pakistan and Australia in 2009.
• Has hosted many international teams during their tours to the UAE due to security issues back home.
• Features 36 corporate suites, 4 dressing rooms and multiple practice pitches of equal standard.
• Has witnessed some cracking games like the tied ODI between India and Afghanistan in 2018.
• Floodlights allow matches to continue in the night under optimum visibility.
• The stands bring crowds right next to the action providing great atmosphere.

10. Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)

• Capacity: 48,000
• Boundary Size: 89m X 82m

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, situated right next to the CBD area of Sydney, is one of Australia’s most storied and historic cricket venues. It has been host to some of the greatest cricketing moments since opening way back in 1854.

Some interesting facts:

• The first ever test match was played here between Australia and England in 1882 making SCG one of the oldest active cricket grounds.
• It has hosted 4 World Cup finals, the most for any ground globally.
• SCG is remembered for the controversial underarm bowling incident between Australia and New Zealand in 1981.
• Shane Warne claimed his 700th test wicket here in 2006 to create history.
• The famous Bradman Stand and Museum celebrate the achievements of Sir Don Bradman.
• SCG members are traditionally allowed to bring their own umbrellas, food and drinks thanks to its rich heritage.

Things That Make a Stadium Iconic

While size and capacity are definitely major parameters, there are some other factors that give certain cricket stadiums an iconic, almost mythical status:

Here are a few things that make a cricket stadium truly legendary:

• Rich cricketing history and heritage
• Memorable matches and record performances
• Rowdy, festive crowds that create an electric atmosphere
• Picturesque locations and visually stunning architecture
• State-of-the-art facilities for players and fans
• Strong home team dominance and fortress record
• Modest capacities that increase demand and create scarcity
• Unique quirks and traditions associated with the venue
• Availability for use beyond just cricket
• Sense of occasion every time a major match takes place

Very few stadiums around the cricketing world can claim to tick most or all of these boxes which is what makes them iconic and bucket-list venues for fans.

Most Crowded Cricket Stadiums

While the above listed stadiums have the largest permanent seating capacities, there have been instances when even bigger crowds have squeezed into stadiums for major cricket matches.

Here are some of the most crowded cricket stadiums of all time based on attendance records:

• Eden Gardens, Kolkata – Over 1 lakh attended India-Pakistan clash in 1999.
• MCG, Melbourne – Reportedly over 90,000 fans present for Australia-England Ashes test in 2013.
• Melbourne Cricket Ground – Official capacity of 90,000 plus reportedly during the 1992 World Cup final.
• Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata – 120,000 fans crammed in for 1999 India-Pakistan World Cup clash.
• Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru – 87,000 attended India-Pakistan ODI in 2005 exceeding capacity.
• Azad Maidan, Mumbai – Over 1 lakh present for a local cricket game between Dalmiya and Bombay Gym in 1955.

So while modern stadiums focus more on comfort and experience, some of the biggest crowds have been for cricket matches in the past.

Advantages of Bigger Cricket Stadiums

Building large stadiums for cricket has its own unique pros and cons. Let’s examine some benefits of having grounds with huge capacities:

• Allows more fans to experience live matches instead of watching on TV.
• Generates higher revenue from gate receipts and sponsorship.
• Provides a grander spectacle befitting cricket’s status as a premier sport.
• Can accommodate important tournaments like the World Cup.
• Multi-purpose design allows hosting of other events too.
• Large capacities intimidate visiting teams unaccustomed to such crowds.
• Creates iconic value and brand equity for the cricket board.
• Gives city a higher profile as an international sporting destination.

Of course, there are also downsides like higher overhead costs and empty stands if team is performing poorly. But Nothing beats the electric atmosphere at a packed stadium for an evenly contested thriller!

Highest Attended Cricket Matches

Let’s also take a look at some of the cricket matches that have officially recorded the highest crowd attendance:

• Australia vs New Zealand, 2015 World Cup Final – 93,013 at MCG
• India vs Pakistan, Eden Gardens 1999 World Cup – Over 100,000 estimated
• Australia vs West Indies, 1975 World Cup Final – 87,182 at Lord’s
• South Africa vs India, 2015 World Cup SemiFinal- 42,672 at SCG
• South Africa vs England, 2003 World Cup Group Match – 43,000 at Kingsmead Durban
• Australia vs India, 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup Final – 86,174 at MCG
• England vs Australia, 1979 Ashes Test – 88,095 at Edgbaston
• India vs Pakistan, 2011 World Cup SemiFinal – 29,000 at PCA Stadium
• Australia vs England, 2001 Ashes Test – 91,092 at Adelaide Oval
• Australia vs England, 2013/14 Ashes Test – 91,092 at MCG

As expected, finals, arch-rivalries and home teams playing feature dominantly in most crowded clashes. The atmosphere and energy at these matches with so many spectators has to be experienced first-hand to be believed!

Biggest Cricket Stadiums Under Construction

To cater to rapidly growing demand from cricket’s appeal, some mammoth stadiums are currently under construction in India, Pakistan and England.

Here are 3 mega cricket stadiums in the works:

• Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium, Pune, India – Capacity of 80,000 expected after reconstruction.
• Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan – Will have accommodate 30,000 fans after upgrades.
• London Stadium, England – With a 95,000 seating, can host cricket at some point.

Once completed, these will expand options for hosting international cricket and also potentially bid for global tournaments on offer. Of course, the real challenge lies in filling up these giant arenas for every routine bilateral series match as well.

Artificial Intelligence in Stadium Planning

Modern cricket stadiums are also relying on emerging technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence during the design planning process:

• Advanced computer modelling helps visualize how the stadium will look once built.
• Accurate 3D rendering creates a simulated experience of being inside the stadium.
• AI is used to analyze crowd congestion mapping to improve seat distribution and spacing.
• Simulations test how weather conditions may impact play within the ground.
• Helps architects experiment with innovative curved, asymmetrical designs.
• AI can identify and fix potential acoustic issues during the construction phase.

As more historical data is fed, the models will become even more precise in forecasting challenges and optimizing solutions. AI is playing a growing role in ensuring cricket stadiums of the future deliver top notch experiences.

Famous Architects of Iconic Cricket Stadiums

Let’s also quickly highlight some of the brilliant architects and firms behind the design of famous cricket stadiums globally:

• Eden Gardens, Kolkata – Original architect was T.W. Gupchup in 1864. Recent renovation by BuroHappold Engineering.
• MCG, Melbourne – Designed by architects James B. Murphy and William Pitt who were commissioned in 1849.
• Adelaide Oval – Original architects John Ebenezer Brown and Daniel Garlick won commission in 1870.
• Sydney Cricket Ground – Architect William Piguet designed the first SCG layout back in 1854.
• Lord’s Cricket Ground – Architect Thomas Verity did the original Victorian design in 1889 which still defines Lord’s character.
• Newlands Cricket Ground – The predecessor to Architectural Design Associates (ADA) firm designed Newlands in 1888.
• Wankhede Stadium – Designed by Shah & Associates which won the contract in 1970s.
• Chinnaswamy Stadium – Architect Charles Correa made the iconic design with brilliant acoustics.
• Dubai International Cricket Stadium – Designed by HOK Sport architecture firm under technical guidance from ICC.
• Optus Stadium, Perth – Designed by Cox Architecture which won the government contract in 2011.

So while capacities and layouts have evolved with time, some core design aesthetics and features continue to symbolize the heritage of famous cricket arenas even today.

In Conclusion

We have covered a wide range of details around the largest and most iconic cricket stadiums across the world along with their history, architecture, capacity and crowd attendance records. While Indian stadiums like Eden Gardens and MCG dominate currently, many new mega stadiums are on the horizon.

The atmosphere and memories created at these massively packed stadiums during cricket rivalries and tournament finals is simply incomparable. Modern technologies will also enhance experiences for both spectators and players.

Of course, no matter how big or small, the best stadiums are defined by the cricketing magic that unfolds within their boundaries! We hope you enjoyed this tour of the 10 largest cricket stadiums globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions fans have about large cricket stadiums: