The Top Cricket Stadiums for One Day Internationals (ODIs)

Introduction

The thrill of cricket has been witnessed by millions of spectators in various iconic cricket stadiums around the world. Some of these venues stand out due to their rich history and the number of One Day Internationals (ODIs) they have hosted. This article explores the top cricket stadiums with the highest number of ODIs staged on their grounds.

Eden Gardens: A Notable Venue for ODIs

As of August 2023, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India has the honor of hosting the highest number of ODIs, with over 150 matches since the format's inception in 1975. This stadium is renowned not only for its rich history but also for its vibrant atmosphere, making it a beloved venue for cricket fans and players alike.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium: The Oldest Cricket Stadium in UAE

Sharjah Cricket Stadium, located in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, is the oldest cricket ground in the country. As of 2023, it has hosted a impressive 240 ODIs, making it the most prolific cricket venue in terms of ODIs. The last match held on this ground was between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 2017.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium: Key Features and History

Established: 1982 Capacity: 27,000 Home team: United Arab Emirates

Sharjah Cricket Stadium has seen some significant matches, including the first ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on 6 April 1984. During this period, from 1984 to 2003, the Sharjah ground was a popular venue for several commercially sponsored one-day tournaments involving three or four international teams.

Other Top Cricket Stadiums for ODIs

Several cricket stadiums have also hosted a notable number of ODIs. Here is a brief overview of some of the notable venues:

Sharjah Cricket Stadium (UAE)

228 ODIs have been played on this ground The first ODI was between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 1984 самый последний матч был между Пакистаном и Шри-Ланкой в 2017 году

Sydney Cricket Ground (Australia)

Hosted 156 ODIs The first ODI on record was between Australia and England on 20 January 1979, which ended in a no-result due to rain

Harare Sports Club (Zimbabwe)

147 ODIs have been staged here The first ODI was played on 25 October 1992 between India and Zimbabwe, with India winning by 30 runs

R Premadasa Stadium (Sri Lanka)

This stadium has hosted 126 ODIs The first ODI was between Sri Lanka and New Zealand on 5 April 1986, with New Zealand winning by 6 wickets

Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur (Bangladesh)

Has hosted 108 ODIs The first ODI was between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe on 8 March 2006, with Bangladesh winning by 8 wickets

Adelaide Oval (Australia)

85 ODIs have been staged at this ground The first ODI was between Australia and the West Indies on 20 December 1975, with Australia winning by 5 wickets

Queen’s Sports Club (Zimbabwe)

Hosted 80 ODIs The venue was first used for cricket in 1996, with the first ODI between Zimbabwe and England on 15 December 1996, ending with Zimbabwe's victory

WACA Ground (Australia)

Hosted 80 ODIs The first ODI was between India and New Zealand on 9 December 1980, with India winning by 5 runs

Brisbane Cricket Ground (Australia)

Hosted 78 ODIs The first ODI was between England and the West Indies on 23 December 1979, with the West Indies winning by 9 wickets

Note: Both the Queen’s Sports Club and WACA Ground have hosted the same number of ODIs, but due to future planning, the WACA Ground is listed below the former.

These stadiums have played a significant role in the history of ODIs and continue to be key venues in the modern era of international cricket. Whether it's the rich history of Sharjah or the vibrant atmosphere of Eden Gardens, these stadiums will always be remembered for their contribution to cricket.