The MA Chidambaram Stadium – Chepauk Stadium– in Chepauk, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has hosted a number of historical games previously and will be the venue of India’s opening game in the 2023 World Cup on October 8, against Australia. Here’s all you need to know about the stadium, including its location, completion year, cost, capacity and records.

Where is the MA Chidambaram Stadium located?

The stadium is located in the capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai. It is located a few metres away from Marina Beach, which lies along the Bay of Bengal. The official address of the stadium is – 1, Wallahjah Rd, Chepauk, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600002.

When was the stadium in Chennai built?

The Chepauk stadium was built in 1916 and is the second oldest stadium in the country, after Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The MA Chidambaram stadium used to be the palace grounds of the Chepauk Palace, which was the official residence of the Nawab of Arcot, from 1786 to 1855.

In 1859, the Madras Presidency acquired the Palace and built a pavilion in 1865. The pavilion was reconstructed in 1866 and was used till 1982, when it was demolished.

What is the cost of the Chepauk Stadium?

A number of constructions have been done at the stadium, the first notable one being in 2010, ahead of the 2011 World Cup. The renovations cost USD 22 million.

In 2015, the Supreme Court adjudged that the renovations done were not in keeping with the public safety regulations. In 2021, the Anna Pavilion, Anna Pavilion stand and the clubhouse were demolished for new infrastructure. This cost approximately USD 16.9 million.

What is the capacity of the MA Chidambaram Stadium?

The original capacity of the stadium was 50,000 but recent renovations, which involve removal of temporary seating and installation of permanent seating have brought down the capacity to 40,000.

What are the records at the Chennai stadium?

There have been a number of memorable matches played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, including the first-ever Ranji Trophy game in 1934. India also won their first Test here, in 1952, against England.

Sunil Gavaskar recorded his 30th Test ton here in 1983, surpassing Don Bradman’s tally of 29 hundreds.

Virender Sehwag became the fastest Test triple centurion when he reached the milestone in 278 balls against South Africa in 2008.

Rahul Dravid completed 10,000 Test runs at the venue, against South Africa in 2008.

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