The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is planning to build a new cricket stadium in Thane district, which will have a seating capacity of 1 lakh fans. This ambitious project aims to provide a larger venue for cricket enthusiasts in Mumbai, complementing the existing iconic Wankhede Stadium.
(Wankhade Stadium, Mumbai)
Location and Land Acquisition
According to a report in the Times of India on Sunday (July 7), the new stadium will be built on 50 acres of open land in Amane village, 68 km away from the Wankhede Stadium. The MCA has reportedly submitted an open tender floated by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to acquire the land and is awaiting approval from the Maharashtra government for the project.
Legacy of Amol Kale
The new stadium is said to be a dream project of former MCA President Amol Kale, who passed away last month. This initiative aims to honor his vision and dedication to enhancing Mumbai’s cricket infrastructure.
Government Support and Vision
The announcement of the new stadium follows a call by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for Mumbai to have a larger cricket venue. During a felicitation ceremony for cricketers Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the Maharashtra state assembly, Fadnavis emphasized the need for a stadium with a capacity exceeding one lakh. He assured that the Maharashtra government, along with the MCA and BCCI, will extend all possible support to realize this vision.
Existing Cricket Venues in Mumbai
Currently, Mumbai is home to three international cricket stadiums:
- Wankhede Stadium with a capacity of 33,000
- Brabourne Stadium with a capacity of 20,000
- DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai with a capacity of 45,000
Historic Significance of Wankhede Stadium
The Wankhede Stadium, renowned for hosting the 2011 ODI World Cup final, has also been the venue for other significant matches, including the first semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, the second semi-final of the 1987 ODI World Cup, and the 2016 T20 World Cup semi-finals. While Wankhede remains a historic and beloved stadium, the new venue in Thane is expected to accommodate more fans and host larger events.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for Mumbai Cricket
The proposed new stadium in Thane marks a significant step forward in Mumbai’s cricketing landscape. With a seating capacity of 1 lakh, it promises to become a premier venue for international cricket, enhancing the city’s reputation as a cricketing hub and providing a fitting tribute to the legacy of Amol Kale.
