The Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium is one of India’s most modern and architecturally impressive cricket venues. Located in Lucknow, this stadium has rapidly become a major centre for international cricket, Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, and domestic tournaments since its inauguration in 2017.
Popularly known as the Ekana Cricket Stadium, the venue blends contemporary design with world-class facilities. It serves as the home ground of the Lucknow Super Giants and represents Uttar Pradesh’s growing importance in Indian cricket infrastructure. With its large seating capacity, modern layout, and balanced pitch conditions, the stadium is now counted among the finest cricket arenas in the country.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Stadium Name | Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium |
| Former Name | Ekana International Cricket Stadium |
| Location | Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| Established | 2017 |
| Seating Capacity | Approx. 50,000 spectators |
| Owner/Operator | Ekana Sportz City |
| Home Team | Lucknow Super Giants (IPL) |
| First International Match | India vs West Indies (T20I, 2018) |
| Ends | North End & South End |
| Floodlights | Yes |
| Surface | Grass pitch |
| Major Events | IPL, International Matches, ICC Tournaments |
History and Development
The Ekana Cricket Stadium was developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with construction beginning in 2014 and completion in 2017. The project reportedly cost around ₹360 crore and was designed to bring international cricket back to Lucknow after many years.
Originally called Ekana International Cricket Stadium, it was renamed in 2018 to honour former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The venue hosted its first international match later that year when India played a T20 International against West Indies.
Since then, the stadium has hosted Tests, ODIs, T20Is, IPL matches, and domestic competitions, quickly establishing itself as Uttar Pradesh’s premier cricket venue.
Stadium Layout and Architecture
One of the most distinctive features of Ekana Stadium is its modern bowl-shaped architecture designed for optimal viewing.
Key Layout Highlights
- 360-degree unobstructed viewing experience
- Pillar-less cantilever roof design
- Wide concourses for easy crowd movement
- Multiple entry gates for crowd management
- Dedicated VIP and corporate areas
The cantilevered roof eliminates pillars inside seating sections, ensuring spectators enjoy clear sightlines from almost every seat.
The stadium complex spans approximately 71 acres, making it one of India’s largest sports facilities.
Seating Capacity and Facilities
Ekana Cricket Stadium has a seating capacity of around 50,000–50,100 spectators, ranking it among the largest cricket stadiums in India.
Major Facilities
- 40 VIP hospitality boxes
- Corporate lounges and premium seating
- Two giant digital screens
- Modern dressing rooms
- Media and broadcast centres
- Advanced drainage system
- Accessible seating for differently-abled spectators
The seating is ergonomically designed with better legroom and wider walkways compared to older stadiums, allowing smoother crowd movement even during sold-out matches.
Pitch Report and Playing Conditions
The Ekana Stadium pitch is considered balanced, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers depending on match conditions.
Pitch Characteristics
- Grass surface with consistent bounce
- Early movement for fast bowlers
- Slower nature helps spinners later
- Competitive scoring venue in T20 cricket
The pitch often slows down as the game progresses, making strategic batting and spin bowling crucial in the second innings.
Records and Memorable Matches
Although relatively new, the stadium has already witnessed several notable cricketing moments.
International Cricket Records
- First T20I: India vs West Indies (2018)
- Hosted Afghanistan’s international matches during their home-venue period
- Regular venue for bilateral international series
IPL Records Highlights
- Highest IPL total: 235/6 (Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants)
- Best bowling figures: 5/14 by Mark Wood
- Highest individual IPL score at venue: 118*
The stadium has become known for tactical matches rather than extremely high-scoring contests.
Tickets and Booking Information
Tickets for matches at Ekana Cricket Stadium are generally sold through official IPL ticketing platforms and authorized online partners.
Ticket Categories
- General stands (budget seats)
- Premium seating sections
- Hospitality lounges
- Corporate boxes
Prices vary depending on:
- Match importance
- Opponent team popularity
- Tournament type (IPL or International)
- Seating location
Fans are advised to book tickets early during IPL seasons due to high demand, especially for Lucknow Super Giants home matches.
Fan Experience and Accessibility
The stadium is part of Ekana Sportz City, a large sports and entertainment complex located along Amar Shaheed Path in Lucknow.
Accessibility Features
- Multiple gated entry points
- Organized parking areas
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Smooth crowd flow design
The modern infrastructure ensures a comfortable match-day experience compared to older Indian cricket grounds.
Conclusion
The Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium has quickly transformed into one of India’s premier cricket venues. Combining modern architecture, excellent facilities, and growing cricketing history, it symbolizes Lucknow’s emergence as a major sporting hub. Whether hosting thrilling IPL encounters or international clashes, the stadium continues to deliver world-class cricket experiences for players and fans alike.
FAQs
Q1. What is the seating capacity of Ekana Cricket Stadium?
The stadium can accommodate around 50,000 spectators.
Q2. Why was the stadium renamed?
It was renamed in honour of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2018.
Q3. Which IPL team plays at Ekana Stadium?
The Lucknow Super Giants use it as their home ground.
Q4. What type of pitch does the stadium have?
It features a grass surface that supports both pace and spin bowling.
Q5. When was the first international match held here?
The first international match was a T20I between India and West Indies in 2018.
Q6. How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available through official IPL ticketing platforms and authorized online booking websites.
