Motera Stadium: The Largest Cricket Arena in the World and Beyond
Motera Stadium: The Largest Cricket Arena in the World and Beyond
Motera Stadium, officially known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, stands tall in Ahmedabad, India, as the largest cricket stadium in the world by seating capacity. This grand venue has a host of special features that make it not only a cricketing giant but also a marvel of modern sports infrastructure. Let's dive into what makes Motera Stadium so remarkable.
Seating Capacity: The World's Largest
Motera Stadium can accommodate approximately 132,000 spectators, making it the largest stadium by capacity. Post a recent revamp, the venue now hosts a significant D-N test match between India and England, scheduled for February 24, 2024. Despite the pandemic, the stadium's capacity has been temporarily capped at 50,000, yet the experience for fans is still unmatched.
Facilities:
The stadium boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern dressing rooms, a large pavilion, and numerous practice pitches. The unique LED lighting system ensures perfect visibility during day or night matches. From fan comfort to player needs, no detail has been overlooked.
Design: A Blend of Modern and Traditional
Designed with a circular layout to ensure good visibility from all angles, Motera Stadium boasts a blend of modern aesthetics and traditional Indian elements. The stadium's unique architectural style sets it apart, making it a true spectacle for visitors and a source of pride for the region.
Multipurpose Sports Venue
While primarily a cricket venue, Motera Stadium is versatile enough to host various sports and events, including football and athletics. This multipurpose design allows the stadium to serve the community and promote a wide range of sports and entertainment.
Eco-Friendly Features
Motera Stadium integrates eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. These features not only benefit the environment but also set a benchmark for other stadiums worldwide.
History and Recent Revamp
The stadium's rich history dates back to 1984, when it hosted its first One Day International (ODI). Post a significant revamp, a total of INR 800 crore has been invested to enhance its grandeur. This recent renovation has made Motera the largest cricketing venue in the world, surpassing even the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.
Parking and Transportation
The stadium's largest parking capacity is remarkable, with room for 3,000 cars and 10,000 two-wheelers. For easy access, the stadium is linked to the Ahmedabad metro, ensuring fans can dodge traffic jams and arrive in style. With three entry points and a spread across 63 acres, fans have ample parking and convenient access.
Enhanced Features for Attendees
Within the stadium, there are 76 corporate boxes available, each with a capacity of 25 and air-conditioned. The estate also features a full-fledged cricket academy, numerous indoor pitches, and facilities for other sports like football, hockey, and basketball. The built-in clubhouse, with 55 rooms, offers a range of amenities, including indoor and outdoor games, a restaurant, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gym, and a 3D projector theatre. Each stand has a food court, making it convenient for fans to enjoy refreshments during matches.
Motera Stadium represents a significant advancement in sports infrastructure in India, combining capacity, design, and modern amenities. It has hosted numerous high-profile international cricket matches and continues to serve as a hub for sports and entertainment in the region.