INDIA WC ITINERARY: GROUND ASSESSMENT

The cricketing carnival returns to India after 12 years. With ten venues hosting the 48-game tournament over 46 days, a detailed look at the nine venues (India don’t play in Hyderabad), where the Men in Blue will be pursuing their quest for global glory...

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ICC MEN'S CRICKET WORLD CUP INDIA 2023

Chennai 

Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

No of matches: 5 

History: For a venue that saw Australia chase down New Zealand’s 286 with ease in the quarterfinals of 1996 edition, the surfaces here have undergone somewhat of a remarkable transition this century. In 2011 for instance, England defended 171 against South Africa on a low surface.

India match: vs Australia, October 8

What to expect: Do not expect a high-scoring thriller. When these two sides met here earlier this year, the spinners accounted for 15 wickets on a surface that gripped. Batters will look to be extra aggressive in the powerplay as once the slow bowlers come on, scoring will become hard.

Weather watch: The retreating monsoon will be round the corner. It’s one of the reasons why Chennai doesn’t host any games in November at this year’s edition.

Delhi

Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

No of matches: 5 

History: Formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, the venue at the India’s capital is the second oldest in India (1883). Over the years, the historic venue has witnessed several landmarks, including Sunil Gavaskar’s 29th Test ton, Sachin Tendulkar’s 35th Test hundred, Anil Kumble’s 10-fer in an innings and more.

India match: vs Afghanistan, October 11