The Inderjit Singh Bindra Stadium, affectionately known as the Mohali Stadium, is a prominent cricketing venue nestled in the heart of Mohali, Punjab, India. This sporting arena, which stands as a testament to passion and dedication, was meticulously constructed over a span of three years, requiring an investment of around ₹ 25 crore.
Unveiling the Marvel: Construction and Design
The brains behind this architectural marvel were Geetanshu Kalra, the visionary responsible for its inception, and the skilled hands of R.S. Construction Company, based in Chandigarh. The stadium, boasting an impressive seating capacity of 26,950, was brought to life under the creative guidance of Ar. Arun Loomba and Associates.
An Ode to Cricket Legends: Home to Punjab Kings
The Inderjit Singh Bindra Stadium proudly plays host to the Punjab cricket team, along with being the cherished abode of the Punjab Kings, an esteemed IPL franchise. This sacred ground pays homage to the illustrious Inderjit Singh Bindra, a luminary who left an indelible mark as the former BCCI president and PCA president.
Innovative Illumination: Floodlights and Safety
A unique feature that sets this stadium apart is its unconventional floodlight arrangement. Unlike conventional stadiums, the light pillars here are deliberately designed to be lower in height. This ingenious move aims to ensure the safety of aircrafts taking off and landing at the nearby Chandigarh airport, steering clear of any potential collisions. Consequently, the stadium proudly boasts 16 floodlights, a testament to its meticulous planning and dedication to safety.
A Rich Tapestry of Cricketing Heritage: History Unfolded
The Mohali Stadium, also fondly referred to as the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, holds the distinction of being the 19th Test cricket venue in India. Renowned for its lively pitch that favors pace bowlers, it also embraces the art of spin bowling as the matches progress. The inaugural moment, graced by a One Day International match between India and South Africa during the 1993 Hero Cup on 22 November, marked the genesis of an enduring legacy.
Legends Carved in Pitch: Memorable Matches
The stadium’s annals are adorned with legendary encounters that resonate in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The inaugural Test match in 1994 between India and West Indies witnessed historic cricketing feats. Notably, the Cricket World Cup semi-final between Australia and West Indies in February 1996 remains etched in the annals of cricket history.
