JE Sports Desk:  Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium has a special place in the hearts of Indian cricket fans, considering India's sensational World Cup win in 2011. That iconic six from former India skipper MS Dhoni against Sri Lanka in the final promised India their second title win after 28 years.

Wankhede once again will be a prime location in the enormous tournament that runs from October 5 to November 19 in India later this year. The famous venue will host the exciting clash between England and Afghanistan which will be the first to be played at Wankhede.

The most awaited matches will be the rematch of the 2011 WC final between India and Sri Lanka and a semifinal clash in the World Cup.

Each ODI World Cup 2023 venue reportedly was set to receive Rs 50 crore to renovate their separate infrastructures as the board allotted more than Rs 500 crore among the 10 World Cup sites.

Wankhede Stadium underwent major upgrades of the new LED floodlights and refurbished hospitality boxes for the ODI World Cup set to take place in October -November.

 

Nature of the pitch In Wankhede:  The entire square is made of local red soil which gives extra bounce thus making batting easy. The pitch over the years has generally favored the batters more than bowlers. The pace bowlers get some help off the pitch here with the new ball due to sea-breeze flow along the stadium.

The dew factor in evening games usually comes into play, making it easier for the team batting second to chase down a target.

 

Wankhede Stadium Trivia

Wankhede Stadium has been the home ground of Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians (MI) since the start of the tournament in 2008. With a seating capacity of 33,000 spectators, the venue is considered a special one due to its prime location. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, which also adds to its charm.


ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Matches:

Sat, Oct 21 - England vs South Africa

Tue, Oct 24 - South Africa vs Bangladesh

Thu, Nov 2 - India vs Qualifier 2

Tue, Nov 7 - Australia vs Afghanistan

Wed, Nov 15 - Semi Final 1