Amravati,
Andhra Pradesh, is poised to become the heart of Indian cricket with plans for
the nation’s largest cricket stadium. The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has
unveiled an ambitious project that will surpass the seating capacity of the
Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, currently the world’s largest cricket
stadium.
ACA
President Kesineni Sivanth announced in a media briefing that the proposed
stadium will accommodate over 1.32 lakh spectators. This project is part of a
larger vision for a 200-acre sports city in Amravati, aimed at revolutionizing
cricket infrastructure in India. To bring this vision to life, the ACA has
requested 60 acres of land from the Andhra Pradesh state government.
Sivanth
stated, "This stadium will revolutionize cricket infrastructure in India
while also establishing Amravati as a prominent destination on the global
sporting map." The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is
expected to provide financial support, with additional funding to be raised
locally.
Aiming
for National and Global Recognition
Beyond the
stadium, the ACA has set its sights on hosting the 2029 National Games in
Amravati, elevating the city’s status as a major sports capital in India.
To nurture
homegrown talent, the ACA also plans to establish three world-class cricket
academies in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada, and Rayalaseema. These
academies will be led by former Indian cricket stars Mithali Raj and Robin
Singh, who will mentor young cricketers and provide top-tier training.
Upgrading
Infrastructure for IPL and International Matches
In addition
to the new stadium, the ACA is upgrading the Visakhapatnam cricket stadium with
modern facilities to ensure it meets the standards for hosting Indian Premier
League (IPL) matches. This aligns with the ACA’s broader vision of attracting
national and international cricket tournaments to the region.
ACA
President Sivanth expressed strong confidence in the association’s ability to
develop local talent. “We aim to have at least 15 players from Andhra Pradesh
in IPL teams over the next two years,” he stated, emphasizing ACA’s commitment
to fostering regional cricketing talent.
Transforming
India's Cricket Landscape
India has
witnessed significant advancements in cricket infrastructure, with stadiums
like the Narendra Modi Stadium setting new benchmarks. With Amravati’s upcoming
stadium, Andhra Pradesh is set to join the ranks of states leading this
transformation in Indian cricket.
World’s 5
Largest Cricket Stadiums
Here’s a
look at the largest cricket stadiums globally:
- Narendra Modi Stadium
(Ahmedabad, India) – 1.32 lakh capacity; the world’s largest.
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
(Melbourne, Australia) – Over 1 lakh capacity.
- Eden Gardens (Kolkata, India) – 68,000 capacity; known for
its rich history.
- Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh
International Cricket Stadium (Raipur, India) – Over 65,000 capacity.
- Perth Stadium (Perth, Australia) – Over 61,000 capacity.
With this
groundbreaking initiative, Amravati is set to become a landmark destination for
cricket in India and on the global stage.
