No buyers for non-India matches at WC? Organisers give exact reason behind low turnout

The iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly known as Ferozeshah Kotla Stadium) is decked up in the 2023 ODI World Cup colours to reclaim its glory. This historic venue, etched in cricketing history for memorable moments like Sunil Gavaskar's 29th Test century and Anil Kumble's legendary 10/74 performance, had a stunning transformation for the World Cup carnival.

3 things you need to know 

• SA vs SL is the first World Cup match in Delhi
• There have been fewer takers for non-India matches
• The crowd turnout in Delhi stood 11,600 at 3:30 PM

Rohan Jaitley reacts to poor crowd turnout

The stadium, which boasts a capacity of 37,499 spectators, made significant improvements to accommodate fans comfortably. Pillars no longer obstruct views in the general stands or corporate boxes. The stadium has evolved from its days of roofless concrete stands. It also gained 1700 seats in the Old Club House, thanks to approval from municipal authorities.

For a premium experience, 37 Corporate Boxes are available in areas like DDCA Lounge, Bay Area, Hill 'B,' and the BCCI Box. Six Boxes are also accessible in the Old Club House, and Marquee Areas have been established to cater to every box. Even the general stands have seen upgrades, with every seat being replaced with new ones.

The Arun Jaitley Stadium is ready to host the World Cup matches, but the turnout of fans has been disheartening. Delhi has been allotted five matches, including India vs Afghanistan. The first match in Delhi played between South Africa and Sri Lanka, witnessed empty stands during the early hours of the match. The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rohan Jaitley explains the reason behind the lacklustre crowd. 

"The current number is 11600 (at 3:30 PM), which is good enough in the early hours of the match. I am expecting it to rise to 22,000+ in the evening. Look, right now it is less because it is afternoon but it will go up. There are special arrangements for the crowd. We also have mineral water for them to ensure they stay hyderated," Rohan Jaitley told Republic Media Network. 

The primary reason behind the poor crowd turnout is that the match commenced in the afternoon and there are not many takers for non-India matches despite it being a weekend. Earlier, the ODI World Cup 2023 opened to the poor crowd at Ahemdabad's Narendra Modi Stadium for the England vs New Zealand match. The eventual crowd turnout in Ahmedabad stood 47,518.

Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium will next host India vs Afghanistan World Cup match on October 11, 2023.