Introduction

Cricket is more than just a sport in India; it’s a religion that binds millions of fans together in fervent devotion. Among the numerous iconic cricket venues across the country, M Chinnaswamy Stadium stands out as a temple of the game, steeped in history and tradition. Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, this stadium has witnessed some of cricket’s most memorable moments, from historic test matches to electrifying IPL encounters. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the rich history of the Chinnaswamy Stadium and delve into the best stands that offer fans an unparalleled viewing experience.

History of M Chinnaswamy Stadium

Named after Mangalam Chinnaswamy, a revered cricket administrator and lawyer, the stadium has a legacy dating back to the early 1970s. It was inaugurated for First-class cricket matches during the 1972–73 season and soon gained recognition as a premier cricketing venue. The first Test match at Chinnaswamy Stadium was played in November 1974, marking the beginning of a storied cricketing journey.

Over the years, the stadium has hosted numerous memorable encounters, including India’s first Test victory against England in 1976–77. Floodlights were installed in preparation for the 1996 Wills World Cup, marking a significant milestone in the stadium’s evolution. Since then, it has been a fixture on the international cricket calendar, hosting test matches, one-day internationals, and T20 fixtures.

Chinnaswamy Stadium Stands

The Chinnaswamy Stadium boasts a range of stands, each offering a unique perspective and atmosphere for spectators. Here are some of the standout stands:

1. General Stand: Positioned to provide a panoramic view of the action, the General Stand offers affordable seating options for cricket enthusiasts.
2. Kei Wires & Cables Stand: Named after a prominent sponsor, this stand provides a comfortable viewing experience with excellent sightlines.
3. Puma Stand: Sponsored by the renowned sports brand Puma, this stand is a favorite among fans who appreciate both comfort and style.
4. Boat Stand: Offering an elevated vantage point, the Boat Stand is perfect for those seeking a bird’s-eye view of the proceedings on the field.
5. Hindware Corporate Stand: Catering to corporate guests and VIPs, this stand combines luxury amenities with prime seating locations.
6. Hospitality Stands: Qatar Airways Fan Terrace, Happilo Grand Terrace, and Qatar Airways Executive Lounge are among the hospitality stands that offer premium experiences for discerning fans.

These stands, along with others like Qatar Airways P1 Annex and Happilo Pavilion Terrace, contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of Chinnaswamy Stadium on match days.

Chinnaswamy Stadium Ticket Prices and Booking

Ticket prices at Chinnaswamy Stadium vary depending on the match and seating category. From general admission to VIP hospitality packages, there’s an option to suit every budget and preference. Tickets can be purchased online through official channels or at designated ticket counters near the stadium. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for high-profile matches and tournaments.

Memorable Matches and Records

Chinnaswamy Stadium has been the stage for several historic cricketing moments that are etched in the annals of the sport. From Sachin Tendulkar’s record-breaking innings to Anil Kumble’s milestone wickets, the stadium has witnessed it all. Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is have produced thrilling contests and individual brilliance, making it a revered venue among players and fans alike.

Chinnaswamy Test Match Records:

• MOST CAREER RUNS:

Sachin Tendulkar scored the most career runs at the stadium with 869 runs in 16 innings.

• HIGHEST INDIVIDUAL SCORE:

Pakistan’s Younis Khan holds the record with a score of 267 in 2005.

• MOST WICKETS:

Anil Kumble took the most career wickets at the venue with 41 wickets.

• BEST INNINGS FIGURES:

Nathan Lyon of Australia has the best innings figures with 8/50 in 2017.

• BEST MATCH FIGURES:

Harbhajan Singh of India recorded the best match figures with 11/224 in 2004.

• HIGHEST INNINGS SCORE (TEAM):

India scored 626 against Pakistan in 2007, which is the highest team innings score at the stadium.

• LOWEST COMPLETED INNINGS (TEAM):

Afghanistan holds the record for the lowest completed innings, with 103 against India in 2018.

• HIGHEST PARTNERSHIP:

Younis Khan and Inzamam-ul-Haq had a 324-run partnership for the 3rd wicket in 2005, the highest partnership at the venue.

ODI Match Records:

• HIGHEST TEAM TOTAL:

India scored 383/6 against Australia on 2 November 2013, the highest team total at the venue.

• HIGHEST RUN CHASE:

Ireland achieved the highest successful run chase at the stadium, scoring 329/7 against England’s 327 runs during a World Cup match on 2 March 2011.

• HIGHEST INDIVIDUAL SCORE:

Rohit Sharma holds the record for the highest individual score at the venue with 209 runs.

• MOST RUNS:

Sachin Tendulkar is the leading run-scorer with 534 runs, followed by Rohit Sharma with 437 runs and Virender Sehwag with 328 runs.

• MOST WICKETS:

Zaheer Khan took the most wickets with 14, followed by Javagal Srinath with 10 wickets, and Venkatesh Prasad and Kapil Dev with 8 wickets each.

T20 Records:

• HIGHEST TEAM TOTAL:

India posted 202/6 against England in a T20I, winning by 75 runs.

• LOWEST TEAM TOTAL:

Sri Lanka managed only 122/9 against West Indies during the ICC T20 World Cup in 2016.

• HIGHEST INDIVIDUAL SCORE:

Glenn Maxwell of Australia recorded the highest individual T20I score at the venue with an unbeaten 113 in 2019, helping his team chase down a target of 191.

• BEST BOWLING FIGURES:

Yuzvendra Chahal has the best bowling figures in a T20I at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, taking 6 wickets for 25 runs against England in 2017.

• MOST RUNS:

Glenn Maxwell is the leading run-scorer in T20Is at the ground with 139 runs in two matches.

• MOST WICKETS:

Yuzvendra Chahal also leads in wickets at this ground in T20Is with six wickets.

• HIGHEST PARTNERSHIP:

Pakistan’s Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik recorded the highest partnership at the venue with a 106-run stand for the fourth wicket against India in 2012.

IPL Records:

• HIGHEST INNINGS TOTAL:

RCB scored 263 runs against Pune Warriors India in 2013, which is also the highest total in IPL history.

• LOWEST INNINGS TOTAL:

RCB was bowled out for 82 runs by KKR in 2008, the lowest total at the stadium in IPL.

• ALL-TIME LEADING RUN SCORERS:

Virat Kohli is the highest run-scorer at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium with 2599 runs.

• ALL-TIME LEADING WICKET TAKERS:

YS Chahal leads in wickets with 52 at the stadium in IPL.

• HIGHEST INDIVIDUAL SCORE:

Chris Gayle holds the record with an astonishing 175 runs off 66 balls against PW in 2013.

• BEST BOWLING FIGURES:

Samuel Badree took 4 wickets for 9 runs for RCB against MI in 2017, the best bowling figures at the stadium in IPL.

Proposed Renaming of Stands

In recent years, there have been calls to rename the stands at Chinnaswamy Stadium to honor legendary cricketers associated with Karnataka cricket. Names like BS Chandrashekhar, EAS Prasanna, and Gundappa Vishwanath have been suggested as deserving tributes to their contributions to the sport. This initiative aims to celebrate the rich cricketing heritage of the region and pay homage to its icons.

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Conclusion

As one of India’s premier cricket stadiums, Chinnaswamy Stadium continues to captivate cricket lovers with its rich history, electric atmosphere, and world-class facilities. Whether you’re cheering from the General Stand or enjoying hospitality in the Qatar Airways Executive Lounge, a visit to this iconic venue is a pilgrimage for every cricket fan. With its storied past and promising future, Chinnaswamy Stadium remains a beacon of cricketing excellence in the heart of Bengaluru.