Eden Gardens Information: The Iconic Cricket Stadium in Kolkata
“Eden Gardens” is one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world, located in Kolkata, India. The stadium has a rich history, having hosted numerous high-profile cricket matches over the years. In this article, we will delve into the history of the stadium, its notable features, and some of the most memorable moments in its history.
History
Eden Gardens was built in 1864 and is the oldest cricket stadium in India. Originally, the stadium was used for horse racing and other sports events before it was converted into a cricket stadium in 1911. The first cricket match was played in 1934 between the Indian and English cricket teams. Since then, the stadium has hosted numerous international cricket matches, including World Cup matches, and has become a mecca for cricket fans all over the world.
Notable Features
Eden Gardens is the largest cricket stadium in India, with a seating capacity of over 68,000. The stadium has undergone numerous renovations over the years to modernize its facilities and improve the overall fan experience. Some of its notable features include:
- A giant scoreboard known as the “Duleep Trophy” which was installed in 1938 and is still in use today.
- A museum dedicated to the history of Indian cricket, located within the stadium complex.
- A floodlight system that was installed in 1993 to enable day-night cricket matches to be played.
Memorable Moments
Eden Gardens has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. Here are some of the most notable moments that have taken place in the stadium:
- In 1986, India beat Australia in a thrilling Test match, with Kapil Dev taking 5 wickets in the second innings to secure the win.
- The 1996 World Cup semi-final between India and Sri Lanka was played at Eden Gardens. India lost the match, and fans in the stadium began to riot and throw objects onto the field, causing the match to be awarded to Sri Lanka.
- In 2001, India staged an incredible comeback against Australia in the second Test match of the series. Australia had scored a mammoth 445 runs in their first innings, but India managed to score 657 runs in their second innings, with VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid both scoring double centuries. Australia were then bowled out for just 212 runs, and India won the match by 171 runs.
Conclusion
Eden Gardens is a truly iconic cricket stadium with a rich history and numerous notable features. From hosting international cricket matches to witnessing some of the most memorable moments in cricket history, the stadium has become a symbol of India’s love for the sport. If you ever have the chance to visit Kolkata, make sure to visit Eden Gardens and experience the magic of this incredible stadium for yourself.
