Delhi Cricket Stadium [Source: AFP]There is good news for cricket fans, as Delhi is planning to build a new cricket stadium in the city. Notably, this move is expected to boost cricket infrastructure and improve the fan experience.The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has sent a formal letter to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta along with the Union government. This request is for the allotment of land in the national capital, as the association plans to build a new world-class Delhi Cricket Stadium. DDCA President confirms updateAs per a report by The Indian Express, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley confirmed this update and shared that four areas have been shortlisted in the midst of T20 World Cup 2026. These locations include Okhla, Dwarka, Rohini, and Narela.It is important to note that the upcoming Delhi Cricket Stadium is expected to have seating for around 60,000 to 70,000 spectators. The DDCA is hopeful that land approval will be received by the end of 2026.“The DDCA wants to build a new modern stadium within Delhi, which will have world-class facilities and enhance fans’ experience. We hope to get land clearance by the end of this year. We have identified parcels of land in Delhi, including in Okhla, Dwarka, Rohini, and Narela. But we want a location which has good metro and road connectivity and is also close to hotels and hospitals," Jaitley was quoted as saying.Current status of Arun Jaitley StadiumNotably, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi currently has a seating capacity of 35,000 fans. The venue has been hosting international cricket since 1948, starting with a Test match between India and West Indies. However, there is no room available for expansion at this location.Reports further stated that discussions regarding the new stadium have already taken place. These talks involved Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, ICC Chairman Jay Shah, and Rohan Jaitley. “The DDCA has written to the Delhi chief minister and also the union government. On the sidelines of the Messi tour’s Delhi stopover, I had discussions with the chief minister Rekha Gupta and ICC chairman Jay Shah about the new stadium. They were both keen that a modern cricket stadium be built in the national capital," Jaitley said.Additional facilities planned at Delhi Cricket StadiumThe proposed Delhi Cricket Stadium will include a cricket academy, a dedicated training ground, and multiple practice nets. These facilities aim to support young players and strengthen grassroots cricket.Notably, Arun Jaitley Stadium will continue to host international matches even after the new stadium becomes operational. The current venue, located between the Ambedkar Stadium and the historic Feroz Shah Kotla fort, has space limitations. For the new project, the DDCA is aiming to acquire around 45 acres of land.The current capacity remains at 35,000 seats. “We are looking at a capacity of 60,000 to 70,000 with an additional ground,” Jaitley added.At present, the Arun Jaitley Stadium is hosting T20 World Cup 2026 matches. During this tournament, the venue is scheduled to host six matches. The first match was played on Tuesday (February 10, Netherlands vs Namibia). The second match will be held on Thursday (February 12). The remaining matches are scheduled for Friday (February 13, UAE vs Canada), Monday (February 16, Afghanistan vs UAE), and Wednesday (February 18, South Africa vs UAE).
