Ahmedabad, the cultural heart of Gujarat, has always been a prominent destination for cricket enthusiasts. From Sunil Gavaskar’s 10k runs or Kapil Dev breaking Richard Hadlee’s then bowling record or Sachin’s first ever double century, Ahmedabad has witnessed several records being created.
Over the years, like Indian cricket, Ahmedabad’s iconic cricket stadium has undergone a monumental transformation – from the humble beginnings of Sardar Patel Stadium to the world-class Narendra Modi Stadium. This journey reflects not only the evolution of cricket infrastructure in India but also the visionary approach to creating a global landmark. Let’s delve into the fascinating story behind this evolution.
The story of Ahmedabad Cricket Stadium began in the early 1980s when the Sardar Patel Stadium was built in the Motera area. It was named in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s ‘Iron Man’ and the architect of the nation’s unity.
Designed to host international cricket matches, the stadium quickly became a vital part of Indian cricket. With a seating capacity of approximately 49,000, it was among the largest cricket venues in the country at the time. The stadium hosted its first international match in 1983, a One-Day International between India and the West Indies.
Over the next three decades, Sardar Patel Stadium became a cherished venue, hosting numerous historic matches, including iconic moments like Sunil Gavaskar reaching the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket. However, by the early 2000s, the stadium’s infrastructure like the fifth day pitch, started showing wear and tear, prompting the need for a significant overhaul.
The vision for a modern cricket stadium in Ahmedabad was born out of a desire to create a state-of-the-art facility that could rival the best in the world. The Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), under the leadership of then-Chief Narendra Modi, spearheaded this ambitious project. Recognizing the need to accommodate more fans and incorporate cutting-edge facilities, the GCA decided to demolish the old Sardar Patel Stadium and rebuild it from ground up.
The goal was clear: transform Ahmedabad Cricket Stadium into an architectural marvel that would set new benchmarks in stadium design and functionality. The vision was not just to increase seating capacity but also the other critical things like sustainability, fan experience and technological advancements. This thinking was the beginning of the journey to creating what would become the largest cricket stadium in the world.
In 2016, the construction of the new stadium commenced, with L&T Construction, the construction arm of Larsen & Toubro taking the lead as the project’s contractor. Known for its expertise in executing large-scale infrastructure projects, L&T Construction brought together cutting-edge engineering and meticulous planning to bring this vision to life.
The Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad with a seating capacity of 1,32,000 is the world’s largest cricket stadium, even larger than the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. Built on the same site as the earlier stadium that could seat a mere 35,000, the Narendra Modi Stadium posed several engineering challenges in terms of size, shape, and scale. While every seat in the stadium affords an uninterrupted view of the boundary lines, the unique roof made of Poly Tetra Fluro Ethylene membrane houses the LED light clusters that eliminates the shadows of the players on the playing arena. The construction involved 6,600 precast elements, 1,14,000 cum of concreting, and 1,46,000 sq metre of plastering.
Despite challenges like the scale of the structure and the incorporation of advanced facilities, L&T Construction completed the project in just five years. The result was a stunning venue that redefined cricket infrastructure in India.
In February 2020, the renamed Narendra Modi Stadium was inaugurated by The President of India, Shri. Ram Nath Kovind. The stadium’s design and features have set a new benchmark in the world of sports infrastructure. Here are some of its unique features:
1. Humongous Seating Capacity
With a seating capacity of 132,000, the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad holds the distinction of being the largest cricket stadium in the world. The stadium’s bowl-like structure ensures an unobstructed view of the field from every seat, enhancing spectator experience.
2. World-Class Dressing Rooms
The stadium features luxurious dressing rooms for players, equipped with modern amenities, a gymnasium, and recreational facilities. These world-class features ensure that cricketers have a comfortable environment to prepare for the game as well as relax.
3. Modular Rainwater Drainage System
Rain disruptions are a significant concern in cricket. The Narendra Modi Stadium is equipped with a state-of-the-art subsoil drainage system that can drain rainwater in less than 30 minutes, ensuring minimal delays during matches.
4. LED Floodlights
The stadium’s innovative LED floodlights are mounted on an anti-shadow structure, providing uniform lighting across the field. This not only enhances visibility for players and spectators but also reduces energy consumption.
5. Indoor Practice Pitches and Training Facility
The stadium houses indoor practice pitches and training facilities, allowing players to practice regardless of weather conditions. These facilities are a boon for both international and domestic cricketers.
6. Corporate Boxes and Amenities
The stadium boasts 76 corporate boxes, each with a capacity to accommodate 25 guests. These air-conditioned boxes are equipped with plush seating, private dining, and spectacular views of the field, catering to corporate clients and VIPs.
7. Fan-Friendly Features
The design of Narendra Modi Stadium prioritizes fan convenience. It features 50 fireproof tunnels that enable swift entry and exit, minimizing congestion. Additionally, the concourse areas are equipped with ample food courts, restrooms, and drinking water stations.
8. Sustainability Initiatives
The stadium’s construction included eco-friendly practices, such as the use of solar panels to generate electricity and rainwater harvesting systems to conserve water. These sustainability measures align with global green building standards.
9. Multi-purpose Usability
Beyond cricket, the Narendra Modi Stadium is designed to host a variety of events, including concerts, exhibitions, and other sports. Its flexible infrastructure ensures year-round usability, making it a vital hub for cultural and sporting activities in Ahmedabad.
The transformation of Ahmedabad Cricket Stadium from Sardar Patel Stadium to Narendra Modi Stadium is a testament to India’s growing stature in the global sporting arena. By combining modern design, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability, the stadium has redefined what a cricket venue can be.
Today, the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad is more than just a cricket ground; it’s a symbol of progress, innovation, and India’s passion for sports. It continues to attract cricket fans from around the world, serving as a proud landmark for the city of Ahmedabad and the nation.
As the stadium continues to host historic matches and memorable events, its legacy will only grow stronger. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or an admirer of architectural marvels, the Narendra Modi Stadium is an experience like no other—a true jewel in the crown of Indian sports infrastructure.