Introduction: Arun Jaitley Stadium
As per cricbuzz report, Feroz Shah Kotla, the esteemed cricket “Arun Jaitley Stadium” in Delhi, boasts a rich history as the home ground for the Delhi Ranji team and the Delhi Daredevils. It is the second oldest international cricket stadium in India and derives its name from its proximity to the Feroz Shah Kotla, a historic fortress constructed by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq. Established in 1883, the stadium has witnessed significant reconstruction over the years. Locally, it is affectionately known as ‘Kotla,’ which translates to citadel or fortress. The stadium’s international debut occurred in 1948 with a Test match between India and the West Indies.
| Opened | 1883 |
| Capacity | 48000 |
| Known as | Feroz Shah Kotla, Willingdon Pavilion |
| Ends | Stadium End, Pavilion End |
| Location | Delhi, India |
| Time Zone | UTC +05:30 |
| Home to | Delhi, Delhi Capitals |
| Floodlights | Yes |
Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium
Feroz Shah Kotla has been a favorable venue for the Indian cricket team. Notably, India clinched victory in seven successive Tests here between 1993 and 2007. Out of their last ten Tests at this venue, India has won nine and drawn one. The last Test match loss at Kotla dates back to 1987, when India was dismissed for a mere 75 runs in the first innings. The stadium has also seen success for India in ODIs, with a string of victories since April 2005. Their last ODI defeat here was against Pakistan, resulting in a 159-run victory for the visitors, allowing Pakistan to claim a 4-2 series win after India initially led 2-0.
Arun Jaitley Stadium: ODI’s Records
| Total matches | 30 |
| Matches won batting first | 14 |
| Matches won bowling first | 15 |
| Average 1st Inns scores | 231 |
| Average 2nd Inns scores | 209 |
ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 matches scheduled at Arun Jaitley Stadium
| 08:30 GMT | ENG vs AFG, 13th Match |
| 08:30 GMT | AUS vs NED, 24th Match |
| 08:30 GMT | BAN vs SL, 38th Match |
Pitch Characteristics: Arun Jaitley Stadium
Throughout its history, the Feroz Shah Kotla pitch has typically favored batsmen. However, in December 2009, the pitch faced severe criticism after an ODI between India and Sri Lanka had to be abandoned due to safety concerns. The pitch was deemed unfit and dangerous, exhibiting unpredictable and uneven bounce. Sri Lanka was struggling at 83 for 5 when match officials decided to halt the game.
Based on the match referee’s report, the stadium faced the possibility of a 1-2 year ban, which could have resulted in a loss of the opportunity to host games during the 2011 World Cup. Fortunately, the ICC imposed a 12-month ban, allowing Feroz Shah Kotla to host four World Cup matches, including India’s clash with the Netherlands.
Memorable Records: Arun Jaitley Stadium
Feroz Shah Kotla has been witness to several historic cricket moments:
- Anil Kumble’s remarkable feat in 1999, when he took all ten wickets in a Test innings against Pakistan, making him only the second bowler after Jim Laker to achieve this extraordinary milestone.
- In 1983, Sunil Gavaskar marked his 29th Test century at this ground, equaling Sir Donald Bradman’s record for the most Test centuries.
- Sachin Tendulkar’s prolific career reached new heights at Feroz Shah Kotla in 2005 when he surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s record of 34 Test centuries by scoring his 35th Test ton in a match against Sri Lanka.
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