Cricket fans from the Andhra region have been left disappointed as Visakhapatnam is unlikely to host any of the One Day International (ODI) cricket matches during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The event is scheduled to be hosted by India during October-November this year. Though the ICC is yet to announce the official schedule and venues, the venues have almost been finalized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as per the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) members.
“It is very unfortunate that we are not given the opportunity. The venues are almost finalised,” said a senior official from the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), when asked about the possibility of Vizag hosting any matches of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. He added, “We have sought some matches, but it has not been finalized. However, if any venue replacement is sought or even as an alternative venue, we will be ready.”
As per sources from ACA, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Mohali, Mumbai, Dharmasala, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Lucknow have been shortlisted as venues for the global event this year. The BCCI is considering hosting the finals in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Once the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes, some of the stadiums among the shortlisted ones would be undergoing massive renovation works to ensure proper facilities for the teams and the spectators.
The ACA VDCA Stadium at PM Palem is in operation since 2003, hosting its first ODI match between India and Pakistan during April 2004. It has not got any chance to host any match during the ICC World Cup during the year 2011 and even during the T20 World Cup 2016, which were played in India.
So far, the YSR ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam has hosted 11 ODIs, two Tests, and three T20 Internationals. India has hosted ODI World Cup matches three times so far – 1987, 1996, and 2011. Visakhapatnam’s Indira Priyadarshini Stadium in One Town has hosted a group stage World Cup match between Australia and Kenya on February 23, 1996. Australia emerged victorious in the match with Mark Waugh scoring 130 runs.
Visakhapatnam has always been a favorite among cricket lovers for its picturesque location and the enthusiasm of the people for the sport. The ACA VDCA Stadium, located in PM Palem, has been known for its excellent facilities and spectator-friendly atmosphere, which have been appreciated by the players and the visitors alike. The stadium has been known for hosting some memorable cricket matches in the past, which has made it one of the most sought-after venues for cricket events in the country.
The news of Vizag not being included in the list of venues for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has left many cricket enthusiasts disappointed. However, it is essential to note that the BCCI has been careful in selecting the venues for the event, considering factors such as the quality of the stadium, the infrastructure, and the accessibility of the venue. The BCCI has been working tirelessly to ensure that the matches are held in stadiums that offer the best facilities to the players and the spectators, and in cities that have a rich cricketing culture and history.
The decision to exclude Vizag from the list of venues for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 might be based on various factors, including the stadium’s capacity, the proximity of other venues, and the number of matches that can be held at the venue. It is essential to note that the BCCI has to cater to the needs of