The Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, popularly known as Jamtha Stadium, stands as a testament to modern cricket infrastructure in India. Located on the southern outskirts of Nagpur, Maharashtra, this stadium is renowned for its expansive field area and state-of-the-art facilities. It has earned accolades from players, journalists, and cricketing authorities worldwide for its remarkable design and amenities.
Overview and History
Establishment: The stadium was inaugurated in 2008, replacing the older Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground as Nagpur’s primary cricket venue.
- Capacity: With a seating capacity of 45,000, it is one of the largest stadiums in India.
- Architect: Designed by Shashi Prabhu, the stadium reflects modern architectural brilliance.
- Ownership and Operation: The Vidarbha Cricket Association owns and operates the stadium.
Field Dimensions
The Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium boasts some of the largest field dimensions globally:
- Straight Boundaries: 80 yards.
- Square Boundaries: 85 yards.
These dimensions make it a challenging venue for batsmen and a paradise for bowlers, especially spinners.
Significant Matches Hosted
Since its inauguration, the stadium has been a hub for domestic and international cricket:
- First Test Match: India vs. Australia (November 6–10, 2008).
- First ODI Match: India vs. Australia (October 28, 2009).
- First T20I Match: India vs. Sri Lanka (December 9, 2009).
It was also a venue during prestigious tournaments like the ICC World Cup (2011) and ICC World T20 (2016). As of February 2025, the stadium has hosted:
- Tests: 6 matches.
- ODIs: 9 matches.
- T20Is: 12 matches.
Home Ground for Domestic Teams
The stadium serves as the home ground for:
- The Vidarbha cricket team (Ranji Trophy).
- The Central Zone team (Duleep Trophy).
Praise from Cricketers
Several cricket legends have lauded the stadium’s facilities:
- Sachin Tendulkar appreciated its world-class amenities.
- Ricky Ponting admired the luxurious dressing rooms.
- Shane Warne highlighted its large boundaries, emphasizing their impact on gameplay.
Press Box and Media Facilities
The stadium features an impressive press box that has received praise from journalists covering matches. Its spacious design ensures comfort for media personnel during high-profile games.
Future Prospects
With its excellent infrastructure and capacity to host large crowds, the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium is poised to remain a key venue for international cricket. Its ability to set benchmarks for newer stadiums reflects its importance in India’s cricketing landscape.
In conclusion, the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium is not just a cricket venue but a symbol of India’s growing stature in global sports infrastructure. Its blend of tradition and modernity ensures it remains a cherished destination for players and fans alike.
