Explain Ahmedabad stadium in 500 words
Ahmedabad stadium, also known as the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium or the Motera Stadium, is a cricket stadium located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. It is the largest cricket stadium in the world in terms of seating capacity and is one of the most iconic sporting venues in India.
The stadium was originally constructed in 1982 and had a seating capacity of 49, However, in order to meet the growing demands of cricket fans and to host international matches, the stadium underwent a major renovation in 2020. The renovation was carried out by Larsen & Toubro and the new stadium was inaugurated on February 24, 2020, by the President of the United States, Donald Trump, during his visit to India.
The revamped Ahmedabad stadium now has a seating capacity of 110,000, surpassing the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, which previously held the record for the largest cricket stadium. The stadium is spread over an area of 63 acres and is designed in a bowl shape, allowing for excellent views from every seat.
The stadium is owned by the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) and is the home ground for the Gujarat cricket team as well as the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, the Gujarat Lions. The stadium has witnessed numerous historic cricketing moments, including Sachin Tendulkar's 18,000th run in Test cricket and Sunil Gavaskar's 10,000th run in Test cricket.
Apart from cricket, the Ahmedabad stadium has also hosted various other sporting events and concerts. It has hosted matches of the Indian Super League (ISL), a professional football league in India, as well as the Kabaddi World Cup. The stadium has also been a venue for cultural events and music concerts, attracting a diverse range of audiences.
The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern dressing rooms, practice pitches, and a gymnasium. It also has a 360-degree LED screen, which provides an immersive viewing experience for the spectators. The stadium is well-connected with the city through various modes of transportation, making it easily accessible for the fans.
The Ahmedabad stadium has not only become a landmark in the city but also a symbol of India's passion for cricket. It has played host to several international matches, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. The stadium has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere during matches, with fans cheering and supporting their favorite teams.
The renovation of the Ahmedabad stadium has not only increased its seating capacity but has also enhanced the overall fan experience. The stadium has become a major tourist attraction, drawing cricket enthusiasts from all over the world. It has put Ahmedabad on the global map as a premier cricketing destination.
In conclusion, the Ahmedabad stadium is a world-class cricketing venue that has redefined the standards of cricket infrastructure. With its massive seating capacity, modern facilities, and rich history, it continues to be a source of pride for the city of Ahmedabad and a testament to India's love for cricket.