With a seating capacity of 50,000, it ranks as India's fifth-largest international cricket stadium
Ekana Cricket Stadium, also recognised as Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium or Ekana Sports City, is an international cricket venue in Lucknow, India. Renamed in 2018 to honour India's 10th Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it was previously known as the Ekana International Cricket Stadium, often referred to locally as Ekana Cricket Stadium. As of January 18, 2024, it has hosted 1 Test, 9 ODIs, and 6 T20Is.
Notably, the stadium boasts the most extended straight boundaries among all stadiums in India. The stadium is the designated home ground for the Uttar Pradesh cricket team, the UP women's cricket team, and the IPL franchise, the Lucknow Super Giants. However, beyond its stunning facade lies a tapestry of fascinating facts and hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery and unravel the enigmatic wonders of Ekana Cricket Stadium.
With a seating capacity 50,000, it ranks as India's fifth-largest international cricket stadium. Ekana Cricket Stadium boasts a picturesque setting, with the serene Gomti River nearby enhancing its charm. Renowned for its unique bowl-shaped architecture, the stadium ensures superb sightlines for spectators, creating an immersive viewing experience from every angle.
Afghanistan fans soaking in the excitement of the match at the Ekana Stadium
In May 2019, the Afghanistan Cricket Board approached the BCCI, requesting to utilise the Ekana Cricket Stadium for their international fixtures. Subsequently, in August 2019, the BCCI granted Afghanistan's national cricket team the privilege of using the stadium as their third home venue in India, complementing their previous Dehradun and Greater Noida venues.
The stadium was the exclusive venue for all matches during the 2019 Afghanistan vs West Indies series. On November 6, 2019, it hosted its inaugural One Day International (ODI) match, followed by its first Test match on November 27, 2019.
On November 6, 2018, the Ekana Cricket Stadium debuted internationally by hosting an exhilarating T20I between India and the West Indies. This historic event solidified the stadium's status among India's prestigious cricket venues and brought international cricket back to Lucknow after a 24-year hiatus. Rohit Sharma's exceptional performance during the match, including his record-breaking fourth century in T20Is, added to the occasion's significance. India secured a commanding victory over the West Indies, winning by 71 runs, thereby ensuring a successful start for the Ekana Cricket Stadium on the global stage and reinforcing Lucknow's reputation as a hub of cricketing excellence.
The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of these athletes on the grand stage of the Ekana Stadium
With great prestige, the Ekana Cricket Stadium hosted a remarkable award ceremony on August 19, 2021, orchestrated by the Uttar Pradesh state government. This distinguished event sought to pay homage to the athletes who showcased exceptional prowess at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of these athletes on the global stage, with special recognition given to Neeraj Chopra for his historic gold medal win in the javelin throw. Chopra's victory, the sole gold for India at the Olympics, was a moment of immense national pride. The ceremony included monetary rewards for the medalists, with Chopra receiving the highest prize for his outstanding contribution to Indian sports.
