From Kapil Dev to MSD: Exploring the history of Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi stadium

Today, Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi stadium is known the world over for being the biggest cricket stadium in the world. But its claim to fame, a chance to assume its rightful place in India's cricketing history is not new.

Formerly known as the Motera stadium, this colosseum of cricket has hosted a slew of memorable games, starting way back in 1983. The stadium has given birth to, and nurtured legends throughout the ages, so here's a look at the marvel of a cricket stadium.

The story for Ahmedabad's Motera stadium began way back in 1983, when the start-studded West Indies team played a test match against India at the venue. Even though the Windies won the game by 138 runs, India's skipper Kapil Dev took 9 wickets for 83, in what is considered to be one of the best displays of test cricket bowling to this day.

After the first test match, Motera stadium in Ahmedabad went on to host a number of iconic games, including ODIs in 1987, 1996 and 2011 world cups. The 2011 World Cup quarter final between Australia and India was also played at the venue which saw the men in blue knock the Aussies out, putting an end to the latter's hopes of winning 3 world cups back to back.

After becoming a massively preferred venue to host International matches, Motera stadium stepped towards a new era in its storied history. In 2015, the stadium was demolished and rebuilt by the February of 2020, a project which came at a cost of ₹800 crore.

Following redevelopment, the new-look Ahmedabad stadium boasted a slew of new upgrades along with a seating capacity of 132,000 spectators, making it the world's biggest cricket stadium. And in February of 2021, it was renamed to Narendra Modi stadium by the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).

Today, Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi stadium is truly a colosseum of cricket. And soon, it is going to add another feather to its cap as the legendary stadium has been chosen to host the final of the ODI World Cup 2023.

For us cricket fans in India and especially Amdavadis, being able to call the world's biggest cricket stadium our own is a matter of sheer pride. We hope the majestic venue continues to provide us with lots of memories in the years to come.