ODI World Cup 2023 Venues: MCA International Stadium Capacity, WC Schedule, Pitch & More
The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune has a unique shape called a "deep bowl." The India vs. Bangladesh World Cup match will be held there.
ICC Cricket World Cup: The much-awaited sporting event is scheduled to begin in India, a country that regards cricket as a religion.
The formidable Indian cricket squad, captained by Rohit Sharma, will start their quest for a third ODI World Cup championship. India's campaign starts with a match against Australia with the goal of taking the lead early in the competition.
Nine games are slated for each team in October and November. On October 19, India will play their fourth game against Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) International Stadium in Pune.
In their most recent meeting, which took place in the Asia Cup 2023, Bangladesh shocked India by winning the Super Four match. It should be mentioned that India tested their bench strength during the match, therefore they were without their superstars. India went on to win their eighth Asia Cup title, breaking the previous record.
Let's take a closer look and learn more about the MCA International Stadium as the World Cup approaches.
ICC ODI WC 2023 games in Pune
October 19, 2023: India vs Bangladesh
October 30, 2023: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka
November 1, 2023: New Zealand vs South Africa
November 8, 2023: England vs Netherlands
November 12, 2023: Australia vs Bangladesh
History of the MCA International Stadium, Pune
The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, located in Pune, Maharashtra, India, is a renowned cricketing venue owned and operated by the MCA.
Situated beside the Pune-Mumbai expressway in Gahunje village on the outskirts of Pune, it has become a prominent fixture on the cricketing landscape. Designed by the renowned Michael Hopkins, the stadium boasts a distinctive deep-bowl layout and can accommodate up to 45000 spectators.
Floodlights enable night-time matches, adding to its versatility. In 2012, the stadium was inaugurated by Sharad Pawar, the then BCCI and ICC president.
Since then, it has hosted several significant matches, including the first IPL match between Kings XI Punjab and Pune Warriors in April 2012, the first T20I between India and England in December 2012, and the first Test match between India and Australia in February 2017.
The facilities at the MCA International Stadium, Pune
Seating capacity for 45000 spectators
Floodlights enable night-time matches
Indoor and Outdoor air conditioning units in important areas
38 sanitary blocks in different public areas
Fully automated turnstiles installed to regulate any unauthorized entry into the stadium
South stand also provides for VIP and Corporate boxes
P.A systems and CCTV security and surveillance systems appropriately deployed at various locations
Dedicated pipeline laid down from the Pavana river to the stadium for pumping raw water from the river
Modern water treatment plant installed to treat the water to potable quality
The MCA International Stadium, Pune pitch
In December 2012, the ground marked its T20 International debut as India faced England. In the same year, it witnessed its maiden IPL clash, Pune Warriors India versus Kings XI Punjab.
Known for its batting-friendly pitch, the venue promises exciting matches. However, spinners also get grip off the surface as the game progresses. Interestingly, the coveres has been praised by legendary India cricketer MS Dhoni.
The drainage system at the MCA International Stadium, Pune
In a strategic move to combat rain disruptions, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has implemented a sand-based outfield at their stadium. The innovative drainage system comprises layers of gravel, washed grit, silica sand, zeolite, and cocopeat to ensure efficient water drainage.
Bermuda grass sourced from Mysore now covers the outfield. Rigorously tested, the system swiftly evacuates water during heavy showers, facilitating quick game resumption. Furthermore, an automatic sprinkler system has been installed to ensure precise and timely outfield irrigation, solidifying MCA's commitment to uninterrupted cricket action.
ODI statistics of the MCA International Stadium, Pune so far
Here's how the pitch will favour India in their match against Bangladesh
If India win the toss and bat first, they would have an upper hand in the contest as the venue has a batting-friendly pitch. If we go by the statistics, teams that have batted first have won the match.