Wankhede Stadium Mumbai: India's Home of Memorable Finals
The history of Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai — home of Mumbai Indians, venue of the 2011 World Cup final, and one of India's most prominent cricket grounds.
Wankhede Stadium in Churchgate, Mumbai, is one of India's most important cricket grounds — the home of Mumbai Cricket Association and the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise. It holds approximately 33,000 spectators and has been the venue for some of cricket's most memorable moments.
History
Wankhede Stadium was built in 1974 as a replacement for the Brabourne Stadium, following a dispute between the Mumbai Cricket Association and Cricket Club of India. Its first Test was played in January 1975. The stadium was significantly redeveloped ahead of the 2011 Cricket World Cup.
2011 World Cup Final
Wankhede Stadium hosted the 2011 Cricket World Cup final on April 2, 2011 — one of cricket's most celebrated nights. India chased down Sri Lanka's 274, with MS Dhoni hitting the winning six off the last ball needed to finish 97 not out (after coming in at No. 5). The image of Dhoni's winning six with the Mumbai night sky lit up is one of the most replicated images in Indian cricket history. Sachin Tendulkar — playing his home ground in what turned out to be his penultimate World Cup — was carried on teammates' shoulders after the match.
Sachin Tendulkar's Home Ground
For Sachin Tendulkar, Wankhede was always a special ground. As a local Mumbai boy who grew up nearby and played his early cricket in the area, Tendulkar's runs at Wankhede always carried extra emotional weight. His farewell Test (Nov 2013) was played at Wankhede, where he scored 74 in his final innings.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Wankhede Stadium?
Wankhede Stadium is located in Churchgate, South Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It is managed by the Mumbai Cricket Association and is the home ground of both Mumbai's domestic cricket teams and the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise.
What happened at Wankhede in 2011?
Wankhede Stadium hosted the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final on April 2, 2011. India defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets, with MS Dhoni hitting the winning six. It was India's first World Cup title since 1983 and was played in front of a passionate home crowd in Sachin Tendulkar's home city.
What is the capacity of Wankhede Stadium?
Wankhede Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 32,000–33,000 spectators, making it mid-sized by Indian cricket ground standards (Eden Gardens holds approximately 66,000, and Narendra Modi Stadium over 130,000).