The Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) stadium at Kotambi will host its first international match next month. The Indian Women’s Cricket Team will compete against the West Indies in a three-match ODI series at the state-of-the-art stadium.
The BCA last hosted international matches in 2019, when the South African women’s team played three ODIs in the city. The previous men’s cricket match played in the town was an ODI between India and New Zealand in 2010.
On Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the schedule for the three matches at Kotambi. These matches are scheduled for Dec 22, 24, and 27. The first two are day and night matches, while the third is planned for a day match. It is the first time an international day and night match will be played in Baroda.
The stadium has witnessed many domestic matches and has been the venue for the practice sessions of Gujarat Titans, the Indian Premier League franchise. It is now being renovated, and work on the connecting road will commence soon.
Pranav Amin, BCA president, told a media section that “land for the broad road to the stadium had been acquired. The tendering for the road would be done soon, and the work would start.” “The association also tried to ensure the venue entered the international men’s cricket calendar,” he added.
A total of Rs 200 crore has been spent on the stadium so far, with an additional expenditure on the pipeline to supply Narmada project water to maintain the grounds and land for the approach road. Sources state that the total amount spent on the stadium may be around Rs 230 crore.
It is designed to enhance the spectator experience with ample seating, advanced technology, and excellent amenities for players and fans. The design allows spectators a 360-degree view and ensures they enjoy the game without needing to stand. The stadium holds a capacity of around 40,000 spectators.
The stadium has five indoor pitches and 17 outdoor pitches, providing ample training and playing area for players. An underground water diffuser system allows the ground to be ready to play within an hour if it rains.
