Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai — India's Most Celebrated Cricket Venue
Wankhede Stadium hosted India's 2011 World Cup final triumph. Learn about this iconic Mumbai cricket ground and its famous moments.
About Wankhede Stadium
Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India, is one of cricket's most emotionally significant venues. Named after Sheshrao Wankhede, the former president of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), it opened in 1975 and holds approximately 33,000 spectators. It is the home ground of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL.
Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Capacity | ~33,000 |
| Opened | 1975 |
| IPL franchise | Mumbai Indians |
| Governing body | Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) |
| Famous for | 2011 World Cup final — India's greatest cricket night |
The 2011 World Cup Final
Wankhede Stadium is forever associated with April 2, 2011 — the night India beat Sri Lanka in the ICC Cricket World Cup final. MS Dhoni walked in at Number 5 with India under pressure and hit a towering six over long-on off Nuwan Kulasekara to win the match. The entire nation erupted. Sachin Tendulkar, playing his last World Cup, was carried on teammates' shoulders around the ground in a scene broadcast worldwide.
Pitch and Conditions
Wankhede's pitch is generally flat and batting-friendly, making it a high-scoring venue. Sea breeze from the Arabian Sea (visible from the stands on clear days) occasionally assists swing early in innings. IPL matches at Wankhede are known for their high run chases.
Other Famous Moments
- Sachin Tendulkar's 100th international century: scored against Bangladesh in an Asia Cup match at Wankhede, 2012.
- 2011 Test series vs West Indies: played here.
- IPL dominance: Mumbai Indians have won multiple IPL titles while home at Wankhede.
Frequently asked questions
What is Wankhede Stadium famous for?
Wankhede is most famous for hosting the 2011 ICC World Cup final, in which India defeated Sri Lanka. MS Dhoni's match-winning six here is one of the most celebrated moments in Indian sports history.
Is Wankhede the largest stadium in Mumbai?
No — the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai has a larger capacity. But Wankhede is the premier cricket venue in Mumbai and the home of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL.