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Varanasi's Trishul Stadium Nears Cricket Debut
29 Oct
Summary
- Stadium features trishul floodlights and damru-inspired media center.
- Venue boasts a 30,000-seat capacity, expandable to 40,000.
- IPL 2027 matches are a possibility for the new facility.
Nearing its competitive debut, Varanasi's new international cricket stadium, an approximately Rs 450 crore investment across 31 acres, is poised to host domestic matches. The 30,000-seat venue distinguishes itself with unique architectural features, including trishul-shaped floodlights, a crescent-shaped roof, and a damru-inspired media centre, reflecting the city's cultural identity.
The stadium's advanced drainage system is designed to make the ground playable within 30 minutes after heavy rainfall. Following its foundation stone ceremony in 2023, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the venue awaits necessary clearances from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) before hosting official matches.
Initial domestic fixtures are planned, with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) scheduling two Under-19 Cooch Behar Trophy matches in December 2026. These games will serve as a crucial test for the playing surface and overall infrastructure. Officials from the BCCI and broadcast teams have already inspected the stadium.
Looking ahead, the venue is being considered as a potential host for Indian Premier League (IPL) matches as early as 2027. This potential elevates Varanasi's status as a significant cricket hub, adding to Uttar Pradesh's existing facilities in Kanpur and Lucknow.
