Introduction
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium is a testament to the remarkable legacy of one of India’s most beloved and visionary leaders, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This sprawling cricket stadium, located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a symbol of his passion for sports, commitment to development, and the love and respect he commanded from the Indian people. With its state-of-the-art facilities, iconic design, and capacity to host international matches, this stadium is a tribute to the incredible journey of a remarkable statesman and a cricket enthusiast.
The Journey of a Visionary Leader: Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the 10th Prime Minister of India, was an exceptional leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. Known for his extraordinary oratory skills, charisma, and ability to bridge political divides, Vajpayee was a true statesman who commanded respect and admiration from across the political spectrum.
A Passion for Cricket
While Vajpayee’s political career is well-known, his love for cricket was equally significant. He believed in the power of sports to foster unity, instill discipline, and shape the character of individuals. As a cricket enthusiast, he understood the importance of providing world-class infrastructure for the development of the sport in India.
The Birth of Ekana Cricket Stadium
The idea for the Ekana Cricket Stadium was conceived during Vajpayee’s tenure as the Prime Minister of India. It was his vision to build a modern cricket stadium that would not only cater to the sporting needs of the city of Lucknow but also serve as a venue for international matches. Named after one of Vajpayee’s pen names, “Ekanta,” which means solitude, the stadium signifies his solitary journey as a leader and his unwavering dedication to the nation. The stadium was built by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) in partnership with Ekana Sportz City Pvt. Ltd. The construction of the stadium began in 2013 and was completed in 2017. The stadium was originally named Ekana International Cricket Stadium, but in 2018, it was renamed to the current name in honor of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Ekana Cricket Stadium boasts state-of-the-art facilities that rival some of the best cricket grounds in the world. Spread across sprawling acres, the stadium can accommodate a staggering 50,000 spectators, making it one of the largest cricket stadiums in India. The seating arrangement ensures optimal viewing experience for the audience, with unobstructed views of the field from every corner.
Hosting International Matches
Thanks to its world-class facilities and impeccable management, Ekana Cricket Stadium has become a sought-after venue for international cricket matches. With floodlights, an excellent pitch, and state-of-the-art amenities for players and officials, the stadium has successfully hosted several marquee matches, including One Day Internationals and T20 Internationals.
The Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium has hosted a number of international and domestic cricket matches. It hosted its first international match in 2018, when India played West Indies in a T20I match. The stadium has also hosted a number of ODI and Test matches.
In 2023, the stadium is scheduled to host matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup. It will be one of the nine venues that will host matches in the tournament.
IPL Franchise
The Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium is the home ground of the Lucknow Super Giants, one of the ten franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Super Giants made their IPL debut in the 2022 season and finished in third place.
Other Facilities
In addition to the cricket stadium, the Ekana Sportz City complex also has a number of other sports facilities, including a football stadium, a hockey stadium, and a tennis academy. The complex also has a number of commercial and entertainment facilities, such as a shopping mall, a multiplex cinema, and a food court.
STATS – ODI
| Total matches | 9 |
| Matches won batting first | 2 |
| Matches won bowling first | 7 |
| Average 1st Inns scores | 219 |
| Average 2nd Inns scores | 212 |
| Highest total recorded | 269/3 (48.4 Ov) by RSAW vs INDW |
| Lowest total recorded | 157/10 (41 Ov) by RSAW vs INDW |
| Highest score chased | 269/3 (48.4 Ov) by RSAW vs INDW |
| Lowest score defended | 248/5 (50 Ov) by INDW vs RSAW |
Schedule
Promoting Cricket and Talent Development
In addition to hosting international matches, the Ekana Cricket Stadium also plays a crucial role in promoting cricket at the grassroots level. The stadium regularly hosts domestic matches, providing a platform for budding cricketers from Lucknow and beyond to showcase their skills. It serves as an incubator for talent development and a hub for cricketing excellence.
Conclusion
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium is not just a sporting facility; it is a tribute to an extraordinary leader and a symbol of India’s love for cricket. With its world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and the legacy it represents, this stadium stands as a shining example of how sports can unite a nation and inspire generations to come.