ODI World Cup 2023 Venues: MCA International Stadium Capacity, WC Schedule, Pitch & More

ICC Cricket World Cup: The highly-anticipated cricketing extravaganza is set to kick off in India, where cricket is revered as a religion. Led by Rohit Sharma, the formidable Indian cricket team will embark on its quest for a third title in ODI World Cup. India's campaign begins with a clash against Australia, aiming to establish early dominance in the tournament.

All teams are scheduled to play nine matches in October-November. India will face Bangladesh in their fourth match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) International Stadium in Pune on October 19. The two sides recently clashed in the Asia Cup 2023, with Bangladesh handing India a shock defeat in the Super Four match.  It is to be noted that India were without thir superstars during the contest as they were testing their bench strength. India went onto win their record-extending eighth Asia Cup title. With the World Cup on the horizon, let's deep dive and get to know the MCA International Stadium better.

ICC ODI WC 2023 games in Pune

October 19, 2023: India vs Bangladesh 
October 30, 2023: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka 
November 1, 2023: New Zealand vs South Africa 
November 8, 2023: England vs Netherlands
November 12, 2023: Australia vs Bangladesh  

History of the MCA International Stadium, Pune

The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, located in Pune, Maharashtra, India, is a renowned cricketing venue owned and operated by the MCA. Situated beside the Pune-Mumbai expressway in Gahunje village on the outskirts of Pune, it has become a prominent fixture on the cricketing landscape. Designed by the renowned Michael Hopkins, the stadium boasts a distinctive deep-bowl layout and can accommodate up to 45000 spectators.

Floodlights enable night-time matches, adding to its versatility. In 2012, the stadium was inaugurated by Sharad Pawar, the then BCCI and ICC president. Since then, it has hosted several significant matches, including the first IPL match between Kings XI Punjab and Pune Warriors in April 2012, the first T20I between India and England in December 2012, and the first Test match between India and Australia in February 2017. 

The facilities at the MCA International Stadium, Pune

• Seating capacity for 45000 spectators
• Floodlights enable night-time matches
• Indoor and Outdoor air conditioning units in important areas 
• 38 sanitary blocks in different public areas
• Fully automated turnstiles installed to regulate any unauthorized entry into the stadium
• South stand also provides for VIP and Corporate boxes 
• P.A systems and CCTV security and surveillance systems appropriately deployed at various locations
• Dedicated pipeline laid down from the Pavana river to the stadium for pumping raw water from the river
• Modern water treatment plant installed to treat the water to potable quality

The MCA International Stadium, Pune pitch

In December 2012, the ground marked its T20 International debut as India faced England. In the same year, it witnessed its maiden IPL clash, Pune Warriors India versus Kings XI Punjab. Known for its batting-friendly pitch, the venue promises exciting matches. However, spinners also get grip off the surface as the game progresses. Interestingly, the coveres has been praised by legendary India cricketer MS Dhoni.

The drainage system at the MCA International Stadium, Pune

In a strategic move to combat rain disruptions, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has implemented a sand-based outfield at their stadium. The innovative drainage system comprises layers of gravel, washed grit, silica sand, zeolite, and cocopeat to ensure efficient water drainage. Bermuda grass sourced from Mysore now covers the outfield. Rigorously tested, the system swiftly evacuates water during heavy showers, facilitating quick game resumption. Furthermore, an automatic sprinkler system has been installed to ensure precise and timely outfield irrigation, solidifying MCA's commitment to uninterrupted cricket action.

ODI statistics of the MCA International Stadium, Pune so far

Here's how the pitch will favour India in their match against Bangladesh 

If India win the toss and bat first, they would have an upper hand in the contest as the venue has a batting-friendly pitch. If we go by the statistics, teams that have batted first have won the match.