ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Venue Guide [Capacity, Dimensions, Spin vs. Pace Records]
The much-awaited ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is only days away from the mega opening ceremony as the warm up matches are going to end on the 3rd of October. This year, India is setting up a big milestone by hosting the entire ODI World Cup as a lone host which hasn’t happened for over 3 decades. The CWC23 will be played in a robin robin format and BCCI has chosen 10 beautiful venues across India to host the entire tournament. The big clash of INDvPAK as well as the CWC23 Final is all set to be played at a grand stadium of Ahmedabad.
ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Venues
Cricket is considered a religion in India which is why BCCI and local state governments have worked together to create the best cricket stadiums in the country and it is because of those efforts, that ICC rewarded India for hosting a complete ODI World Cup this time.
Below we have discussed each ground capacity, it’s dimensions as well as the records of both the spinners and pacers to help you understand which team can benefit from the conditions better and ultimately push you to pick the best eleven dream11 fantasy teams to win exciting cash rewards.
CHECK: ICC World Cup 2023 Tickets Booking Online, Price & Discounts
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
You will be amazed by the grandeur and historical significance of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. As one of the venues for the ICC Cricket World Cup, this stadium holds a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts. Not only is it the biggest cricket stadium in India, but it is also a famous cricket stadium known for hosting some iconic matches.
With a seating capacity of 132,000, the Narendra Modi Stadium is truly a spectacle to behold. Renovated in 2021, this stadium is no stranger to big occasions. It has witnessed many historical moments throughout the years. In fact, in March 1987, Sunil Gavaskar made history by becoming the first batter to breach the 10,000-Test run mark at this very venue.
The Narendra Modi Stadium has also played host to IPL finals and was the venue for the World Cup final in 2011 when India broke Australia’s streak of making the final of every ODI World Cup since 1996. With such a rich history, it is no wonder that this stadium is chosen as one of the venues for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup.
| Capacity | 132,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 75m (average) Squares – 60-65m (average) |
| Number of pitches | 11 |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 3 |
| Average score batting 1st | 226 |
| Batting first won | 2 out of 3 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 3 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 27.44 Economy Rate 5.20 Wickets 18 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 21.30 Economy Rate 4.38 Wickets 33 |
Eden Gardens, Kolkata
The Eden Gardens, Kolkata, a historic cricket venue has undergone significant changes and now offers a quick, flat deck favoring pace over spin. In the past, the pitch at Eden Gardens used to be a low, slow surface that suited spinners and helped the Kolkata Knight Riders achieve success. However, the pitch has completely transformed, and now it provides more assistance to fast bowlers.
The average score batting first at this venue is 262, indicating that it is a high-scoring ground. One interesting factor to consider is the breeze that blows across the ground around sunset, which can affect the game. Eden Gardens has a capacity of 68,000, making it one of the largest cricket stadiums in India. It also holds the distinction of being the first stadium in India to host a World Cup final in 1987. With its lively pitch and breezy conditions, Eden Gardens is sure to witness some thrilling ODI clashes during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
| Capacity | 68,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 64-71m (average) Squares – 65-69m (average) |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 3 |
| Average score batting 1st | 262 |
| Batting first won | 2 out of 3 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 3 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 34.53 Economy Rate 4.93 Wickets 13 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 29.82 Economy Rate 5.63 Wickets 35 |
Ekana Stadium, Lucknow
Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium, with a capacity of 50,000, offers a challenging playing environment for both batters and bowlers. The boundary dimensions at this venue vary, with the straight boundaries measuring between 68-70m on average, while the square boundaries are around 63-65m on average. In terms of ODIs played, Ekana Stadium has hosted four matches so far since 2016. When batting first, the average score at this venue is 226, and out of the four matches, two have been won by the team batting first, while the other two have been won by the team batting second.
When it comes to the bowlers, spinners have enjoyed success at Ekana Stadium, with an average of 36.50, an economy rate of 4.76, and 26 wickets taken. Seamers, on the other hand, have an average of 32.76, an economy rate of 5.04, and have also taken 26 wickets. Lucknow is known for its low, slow, and spin-friendly pitches, but there are also some flat pitches in the square that have seen high scores during the IPL. Seamers who can vary their pace will find the conditions favorable.
| Capacity | 50,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 68-70m (average) Squares – 63-65m (average) |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 4 |
| Average score batting 1st | 226 |
| Batting first won | 2 out of 4 |
| Batting second won | 2 out of 4 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 36.50 Economy Rate 4.76 Wickets 26 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 32.76 Economy Rate 5.04 Wickets 26 |
MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
You will frequently witness spin playing a crucial role at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. This venue has a reputation for being spin-friendly, with spinners having a significant impact on the game. The average spin bowling average at this stadium is 32.39, with an economy rate of 5.49. Spinners have taken 17 wickets here, highlighting their effectiveness on this pitch.
However, it is important to note that scoring runs is not difficult at MA Chidambaram Stadium. Contrary to popular belief, batters have been able to score at a decent rate here. The average first innings score in the last three ODIs played at this venue is nearly 280, indicating that there have been high-scoring matches.
The M.A. Chidambaram Stadium is known for its humid climate, thanks to its proximity to the Indian Ocean. This can add an additional challenge for the players, as the conditions can be physically demanding.
| Capacity | 50,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 65m (average) Squares – 68m (average) |
| Number of pitches | 9 |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 3 |
| Average score batting 1st | 279 |
| Batting first won | 2 out of 3 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 3 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 32.39 Economy Rate 5.49 Wickets 17 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 36.03 Economy Rate 5.61 Wickets 26 |
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
You will often find high-scoring matches at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad, as teams prefer to chase targets at this venue. The stadium has a capacity of 55,000 spectators and has hosted two ODIs since 2019. The average score batting first here is 292, indicating the high-scoring nature of the ground. However, teams batting first have won only one out of the two matches played, suggesting that chasing is the preferred strategy.
Spinners and seamers both have similar average records at this venue, with spinners averaging 43.87 and seamers averaging 40.25. The economy rates for spinners and seamers are 5.16 and 6.20 respectively. Spinners have taken 8 wickets, while seamers have taken 20 wickets at this venue. The dimensions of the boundary vary, with straight boundaries measuring 65-70m on average and square boundaries measuring 66-69m on average. Overall, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium offers a favorable batting conditions and a preference for teams to chase targets.
| Capacity | 55,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 65-70m (average) Squares – 66-69m (average) |
| Number of pitches | Unknown |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 2 |
| Average score batting 1st | 292 |
| Batting first won | 1 out of 2 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 2 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 43.87 Economy Rate 5.16 Wickets 8 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 40.25 Economy Rate 6.20 Wickets 20 |
Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
When attending a match at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, you can expect an atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation. As one of the top cricket stadiums in India, this venue has also been chosen as one of the cricket World Cup venues for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. With a capacity of 37,500, Arun Jaitley Stadium provides a thrilling experience for cricket enthusiasts.
The boundary dimensions at Arun Jaitley Stadium are as follows: straight boundaries average between 68-70m, while the square boundaries average 65m. The stadium boasts a total of nine pitches, offering a variety of conditions for the players. In terms of past ODI matches, there have been three games played at this venue, with an average score of 204 for the team batting first since 2016.
Interestingly, spinners have had a slight edge at this stadium. On average, spinners have taken wickets at 22.87, with an economy rate of 5.07. However, seamers have also had success here, with an average of 25.91, an economy rate of 4.51, and 24 wickets taken.
| Capacity | 37,500 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 68-70m (average) Squares – 65m (average) |
| Number of pitches | 9 |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 3 |
| Average score batting 1st | 204 |
| Batting first won | 2 out of 3 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 3 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 22.87 Economy Rate 5.07 Wickets 24 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 25.91 Economy Rate 4.51 Wickets 24 |
HPCA Cricket Stadium, Dharamsala
Since the HPCA Cricket Stadium is located in the picturesque town of Dharamsala, it provides a unique and breathtaking setting for cricket matches. With a capacity of 23,000, this stadium has hosted two ODIs since 2016. The boundary dimensions at this venue are relatively small, with an average of 68-70m for the straight boundaries and 63-65m for the square boundaries. The stadium boasts nine pitches, which gives teams a variety of options to choose from.
Batting first has not been successful at this venue, with an average score of 151. In the two ODIs played here, the team batting second emerged victorious on both occasions. The conditions at the HPCA Cricket Stadium generally favor seamers, with an average of 24 and an economy rate of 4.50. They have claimed 18 wickets so far. Spinners, on the other hand, have an average of 21.37 with an economy rate of 4.27, and have taken 8 wickets. However, these statistics are largely influenced by the top-order collapses induced by seamers, allowing spinners to clean up the tail.
| Capacity | 23,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 68-70m (average) Squares – 63-65m (average) |
| Number of pitches | 9 |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 2 |
| Average score batting 1st | 151 |
| Batting first won | 0 |
| Batting second won | 2 out of 2 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 21.37 Economy Rate 4.27 Wickets 8 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 24 Economy Rate 4.50 Wickets 18 |
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai offers a vibrant atmosphere and a formidable challenge for both batsmen and bowlers. The venue has a capacity of 32,000 spectators and is known for its distinct red-soil pitch. Seamers at Wankhede get good bounce and carry, with appreciable movement under lights and with the sea breeze. Spinners also have their moments here, as the Chennai Super Kings have successfully implemented their middle-overs spin choke.
The boundary dimensions at Wankhede are relatively short, which means that shots hold more value compared to some other venues. In terms of ODIs played at this venue, three matches have taken place, and all three have been won by the team batting second. The average score batting first is 241. Spinners have performed well at Wankhede, with an average of 71.28, an economy rate of 5.36, and seven wickets. Seamers, on the other hand, have an average of 31.58, an economy rate of 5.44, and have taken 29 wickets. Overall, Wankhede Stadium provides an exciting and challenging setting for cricket matches.
| Capacity | 32,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 68-72m (average) Squares – 64-66m (average) |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 3 |
| Average score batting 1st | 241 |
| Batting first won | 0 |
| Batting second won | 3 out of 3 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 71.28 Economy Rate 5.36 Wickets 7 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 31.58 Economy Rate 5.44 Wickets 29 |
MCA International Stadium, Pune
Pune’s MCA International Stadium is undoubtedly a high-scoring venue, but it also offers some assistance for both spinners and seamers. With a capacity of 36,400, this stadium has seen a fair share of big scores in the ODIs played here. The boundary dimensions are relatively average, with straight boundaries ranging from 72-74m and square boundaries measuring around 65m. In terms of results, batting first and second have had an equal share of success, with both winning three out of the six matches played at this venue since 2016.
When it comes to the performance of spinners at MCA International Stadium, the numbers suggest that they have found it challenging to make an impact. The average for spinners at this venue is 68.52, with an economy rate of 6.23. However, they have managed to take 19 wickets, indicating that there is some assistance for spin on offer.
On the other hand, seamers have had a better time at this venue. With an average of 32.82 and an economy rate of 6.08, they have been able to trouble the batsmen more effectively. Seamers have taken a total of 68 wickets, showcasing their ability to exploit the conditions and make an impact.
| Capacity | 36,400 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 72-74m (average) Squares – 65m (average) |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 6 |
| Average score batting 1st | 307 |
| Batting first won | 3 out of 6 |
| Batting second won | 3 out of 6 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 68.52 Economy Rate 6.23 Wickets 19 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 32.82 Economy Rate 6.08 Wickets 68 |
M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
With its short boundaries and high altitude, M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is expected to provide a thrilling atmosphere for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Known for its high-scoring matches, this stadium has witnessed some remarkable innings over the years. The average score batting first at this venue is 310, indicating the batting-friendly nature of the pitch. However, the limited amount of ODI data in recent years makes it difficult to draw concrete conclusions about the pitch behavior.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), teams have preferred chasing at this ground, suggesting that it might favor the chasing team during the World Cup as well. Despite the short boundaries, spinners can play a significant role on certain pitches, adding an element of balance between bat and ball. In terms of records, the stadium is no stranger to historic moments, such as Kevin O’Brien’s fastest hundred in an ODI World Cup in 2011. As the home of the National Cricket Academy, M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been instrumental in nurturing some of India’s finest cricketing talents. With its unique characteristics, this stadium promises to deliver exciting matches and memorable performances during the upcoming World Cup.
| Capacity | 40,000 |
| Boundary dimensions | Straight – 65m (average) Squares – 55-60m (average) |
| Number of pitches | 4 |
| Number of ODIs played since 2016 | 2 |
| Average score batting 1st | 310 |
| Batting first won | 1 out of 2 |
| Batting second won | 1 out of 2 |
| Spinners at this venue | Average 66.85 Economy Rate 5.69 Wickets 7 |
| Seamers at this venue | Average 45.18 Economy Rate 6.26 Wickets 16 |
Which Team Favors the Conditions?
It is no surprise that team India will definitely fancy their chances to repeat the history of 2011 Cricket World Cup yet again and become the third time champions of ODI World Cups. Apart from India, we believe Australia, England, New Zealand and South Africa are among the top teams who will give a hard time to the home team and they have the resources available to make full use of the conditions available in this World Cup.
In the warm up matches, we have seen pitches are going to be batters friendly and teams will have to score upward of 350 runs to have a chance defending.
In terms of underdogs, team Pakistan can definitely surprise big teams like England or South Africa and make their way for the Semi-Finals. At the moment, they are struggling big time in the bowling department specially in the middle overs as their front line spinners like Shadab and Nawaz are not able to provide break throughs. Hassan Ali with the new ball will be risky take as he often leaks too many runs in the powerplay overs.
