Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium

Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium, historically known as Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, is a cornerstone of Indian cricket history. Located in the heart of New Delhi, it is the second oldest functional international cricket stadium in India, after Eden Gardens. It serves as the home ground for the Delhi Capitals (IPL) and the Delhi Cricket Team. The stadium is famous for its intimate atmosphere and has been the site of many iconic records, most notably Anil Kumble’s historic “Perfect 10” wickets in an innings. Renamed in 2019 in honor of the former DDCA President and Union Minister, the stadium remains a gritty, high-stakes venue where every run is hard-earned.

🏗️ History and Design

Established in 1883, the stadium sits adjacent to the ruins of the 14th-century Feroz Shah Kotla Fort, providing one of the most unique backdrops in world cricket.

Unique Geometry: The stadium is known for its relatively small boundaries, which often leads to high-scoring T20 matches. However, the stands are steep and close to the action, creating an intense environment.
The Pitch: Historically, the “Kotla” pitch is famous for being slow and low, traditionally favoring spin bowlers. In recent years, it has been relaid to provide more pace and bounce, though it remains a tactical challenge for captains.
Modernization: The stadium features modern floodlights and a recently upgraded drainage system. Many of the stands have been named after local legends, including the Virat Kohli Pavilion and the Virender Sehwag Gate.
Heritage Backdrop: The proximity to the Ashokan Pillar and the ancient fort walls gives the venue a sense of history that few other modern stadiums can match.

📍 Key Information

Official Name: Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium (formerly Feroz Shah Kotla)
Location: New Delhi, India (Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg)
Opened: 1883
Capacity: 35,231
Primary Tenants: Delhi Capitals (IPL), Delhi Cricket Team (Domestic)
Address: Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Vikram Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110002, India

Contents

🏆 Major Events Hosted

Arun Jaitley Stadium has witnessed some of the most remarkable individual performances in the history of the sport. 🏆

Anil Kumble’s 10-Wicket Haul: In 1999, Kumble became only the second bowler in Test history to take all ten wickets in a single innings, achieving the feat against Pakistan.
Sachin Tendulkar’s 35th Century: In 2005, Tendulkar surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s record for the most Test centuries by scoring his 35th ton on this ground.
World Cup History: The stadium has been a key venue for multiple ICC Cricket World Cups, including the 1987, 1996, 2011, and 2023 editions.
IPL Playoffs: As a major metropolitan venue, it frequently hosts high-pressure knockout matches during the Indian Premier League season.

🚆 Getting to Arun Jaitley Stadium

The stadium is located in a high-traffic area of Central Delhi, making the Delhi Metro the absolute best way to travel. 🚆

By Public Transport (Metro): The Delhi Gate Metro Station (Violet Line) is located almost directly outside the stadium. Alternatively, the ITO Metro Station is a 10-minute walk away.
By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is approximately 18–22 km away. The journey can take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes depending on the city’s heavy congestion.
By Train: The stadium is very close to the New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), which is just 3 km away. A quick rickshaw or taxi ride will bring you to the gates.
By Foot: For those staying in Central Delhi, walking from areas like Connaught Place is possible but can take 20–30 minutes through busy streets.
Parking: On-site parking is extremely restricted and usually reserved for VVIPs and officials. Fans are strongly encouraged to use the Metro.

🎟️ Tickets & Tours at Arun Jaitley Stadium

Tickets

Tickets for IPL and International games are usually sold through Paytm Insider or BookMyShow. Due to the smaller capacity compared to other Indian stadiums, tickets for big games sell out very quickly. Digital tickets often need to be exchanged for physical ones at box offices located a few kilometers away from the venue. 🎫

Tours

There are no official daily guided tours of the stadium. However, the DDCA often maintains galleries featuring the hall of fame and historic photographs. Access on non-match days is generally restricted to members and club officials.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Arun Jaitley Stadium

The stadium’s central location means you are near the heart of the city’s commercial and historic districts.

Connaught Place (CP): The cultural hub of Delhi, located just 3 km away. It offers a huge range of hotels, bars, and restaurants.
- Example: The Lalit New Delhi, Radisson Blu Marina, or Hans Hotel.
Paharganj: Located near the New Delhi Railway Station, this area offers numerous budget-friendly options for traveling fans.
Civil Lines: A quieter, more historic area in North Delhi that is easily accessible via the Metro.

💡 Know Before You Go

Security Protocol: Security in Delhi is exceptionally tight. Prohibited items include backpacks, power banks, coins, umbrellas, and outside food/water. Bring only your ticket, wallet, and phone.
Air Quality: For matches in October or November, be aware of Delhi’s seasonal air quality issues. Check local advisories if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Street Food: The area around the stadium is famous for its street food. Visit the nearby Chandni Chowk or Daryaganj for world-famous kebabs and parathas after the game.
Crowd Energy: Delhi fans are passionate and loud. Expect plenty of chanting, particularly for local hero Virat Kohli, even during IPL matches.