Cricket is more than a sport — it’s a shared emotion that fills entire arenas with noise, colour, and pride. Around the world, a handful of colossal stadiums stand as symbols of that passion.

These are the biggest cricket stadiums in the world, ranked by capacity. Each one tells its own story — of crowds, architecture, and cricketing history.

Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India – 132,000

At the top of the list stands the Narendra Modi Stadium, located in Motera, Ahmedabad. With an official capacity of 132,000 spectators, it’s not only the largest cricket stadium in the world but also one of the most advanced.

Rebuilt in 2020, it covers over 63 acres and includes 11 pitches, LED lighting rings, and world-class drainage systems. The stadium regularly hosts high-profile matches, including ICC tournaments and IPL finals.

What sets Motera apart is how it connects technology with community — a venue where school matches, local tournaments, and global finals share the same turf.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne, Australia – 100,024

The MCG has long been a temple of world sport. Opened in 1853, it now seats just over 100,000 fans, making it the largest stadium outside India.

From the first Test in 1877 to modern-day Ashes clashes, the MCG’s legacy runs deep. Its location inside Melbourne’s sports precinct makes it an experience — trains rumble past, crowds sing, and the atmosphere rises long before the first ball is bowled.

For many, the MCG represents cricket’s connection to its past and its promise to future generations.

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India – 66,000

Often called the “Mecca of Indian Cricket,” Eden Gardens is one of the sport’s oldest and most storied grounds. Once capable of hosting over 100,000 spectators, its capacity now stands at around 66,000 following renovations.

Built in 1864, it has witnessed unforgettable moments — India’s World Cup semi-final win in 1987, Harbhajan Singh’s hat-trick in 2001, and numerous IPL classics.

Eden Gardens remains more than a venue; it’s an emotion for millions of fans across Bengal and beyond.

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, India – 65,000

Located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh, this modern ground can hold 65,000 spectators. It has become a regular IPL and domestic cricket venue, known for its balance of comfort and local enthusiasm.

The stadium’s open design and energy-efficient lighting make it one of India’s most eco-friendly sports venues. When packed, its atmosphere rivals the biggest arenas in the country.

Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium), Perth, Australia – 60,000

Perth’s Optus Stadium may be newer than most, but it already ranks among the best designed cricket venues in the world. Opened in 2018, it can seat 60,000 people and delivers perfect viewing angles from every seat.

Fast bowlers love this pitch. It continues the legacy of the WACA by offering bounce, pace, and theatre. When the lights shine over the Swan River, cricket in Perth feels as futuristic as it does fierce.

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad, India – 55,000

Built in 2003, this venue can host around 55,000 fans and is home to the Hyderabad Cricket Association and the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise.

Known for its sharp turns and long boundaries, it has staged memorable IPL and international fixtures. Fans here bring unmatched energy — every wicket feels like a festival.

Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, India – 50,000

Located in Kerala’s capital, Greenfield Stadium combines modern architecture with scenic surroundings. Seating 50,000 spectators, it’s one of India’s most beautifully placed cricket grounds, bordered by lush hills and clear skies.

Its design allows it to switch between cricket and football within hours, showing how modern infrastructure can serve community sport efficiently.

Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Australia – 53,500

Few grounds match the charm of the Adelaide Oval. With its restored heritage scoreboard and new pavilions, it offers a blend of history and innovation.

It holds 53,500 fans and often delivers classic Test contests under clear South Australian skies. The surrounding parklands and river views make it one of cricket’s most scenic stadiums.

DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, India – 55,000

Originally built for football, the DY Patil Stadium has become a vibrant cricket venue, with a capacity of 55,000. Its modern facilities and floodlights make it an IPL favourite.

It often hosts domestic finals and youth tournaments — a reminder that large arenas aren’t just for international stars but also for grassroots players chasing big dreams.

The Oval, London, England – 27,500

While not among the very largest by number, The Oval deserves a place on this list for its legacy. Opened in 1845, it holds 27,500 spectators and remains one of cricket’s most historic venues.

It hosted England’s first Test match in 1880 and continues to be the spiritual home of Surrey County Cricket Club. For cricket fans visiting London, The Oval is as much a landmark as a ground.

Other Notable Large Stadiums

  • Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi (India) – 60,000

  • Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi (India) – 41,000

  • Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (Pakistan) – 27,000

  • R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (Sri Lanka) – 35,000

  • Newlands, Cape Town (South Africa) – 25,000 (famous for its Table Mountain view)

These grounds remind us that size isn’t the only measure of greatness — it’s the passion inside them that defines cricket’s beauty.

The Evolution of Stadium Design

Over the past two decades, cricket architecture has shifted from concrete bowls to multi-purpose entertainment hubs. Modern stadiums like Motera and Optus show how capacity, comfort, and sustainability can work together.

Smart seating layouts, advanced drainage, and digital scoreboards enhance the match-day experience. Yet, even as technology grows, the soul of every stadium remains the same — the fans who fill it.

How Big Stadiums Shape the Game

Large arenas aren’t just structures. They represent opportunity. For players, performing before 100,000 spectators is both pressure and privilege. For fans, they’re places of belonging — where every cheer echoes beyond boundaries.

Grassroots players too dream of these stages. Platforms like CricHeroes help that journey by scoring every local match, connecting players to a wider cricket world that begins on small fields but leads to stadiums of dreams.

FAQ

What is the largest cricket stadium in the world?
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, with a capacity of 132,000, is the largest.

Which is the largest stadium outside India?
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia, seating 100,024 fans.

Which country has the most large cricket stadiums?
India leads, with more than ten stadiums capable of hosting over 50,000 spectators.

Which is the oldest large cricket stadium still in use?
The MCG (built in 1853) and The Oval (1845) are among the oldest active venues.

Are new stadiums being built?
Yes. Several Indian states and Gulf nations have announced large multi-use cricket stadiums to meet growing fan demand.

Conclusion

The world’s largest cricket stadiums are not just places to watch the game — they’re living stories of effort, pride, and unity. From Ahmedabad’s scale to Melbourne’s history and Eden Gardens’ emotion, each ground celebrates cricket’s spirit in its own way.

Every young player dreams of playing under those lights. Every fan dreams of standing in those stands. And every scorer, organiser, and supporter helps make that dream real.