ACA pitches Vizag as venue for IPL matches

ACA aims to bring IPL matches back to Visakhapatnam, highlighting the city's upgraded stadium and passionate cricket fanbase.

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) season expected to begin by the end of next month, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has initiated efforts to bring the excitement of IPL cricket back to Visakhapatnam, aiming to energise cricket fans across the region.

In preparation for the upcoming season, ACA authorities are actively engaging in discussions with multiple IPL franchises, and are inviting them to consider Visakhapatnam as a venue for hosting a few matches. The association is making efforts to position the city as an attractive second home-ground option for teams looking to diversify their venues. By highlighting the stadium’s upgraded infrastructure and the city’s track record, the ACA hopes to secure a few high-profile fixtures this season.

During the IPL seasons of 2024 and 2025, the Delhi Capitals (DC) successfully hosted a couple of their home matches in Vizag. Over the years, the city has hosted around 15 IPL matches, including crucial qualifier games during the 2019 season. In the past, Visakhapatnam also served as a second home ground for Sunrisers Hyderabad in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

This year, several prominent IPL franchises are reportedly exploring alternative venues, either as additional home grounds or in certain cases, as primary venues. Sensing this opportunity, the ACA is holding discussions with the franchise representatives to understand their specific requirements. They are also presenting an overview of the stadium’s facilities and are inviting franchise officials to conduct inspections before taking a decision.

“The talks are still ongoing. It is too early to make any definitive statement. We are optimistic, and we may have a clearer picture by the end of this month,” said an ACA official on condition of anonymity.

It may be noted that Dr YSR ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium underwent extensive renovation last year, significantly enhancing its overall infrastructure. Key areas such as the players' dressing rooms, commentator's box, LED floodlighting system, spectator amenities, and other facilities were modernised, giving the stadium a fresh look. As a result of these improvements, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had permitted the venue to host a series of prestigious matches within a span of just 10 months, including IPL, ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup matches, a Men’s One-Day International (ODI), as well as both Men’s and Women’s T20 Internationals. Known for its passionate fan base and cricketing atmosphere, the coastal city has drawn impressive crowds whenever matches are hosted.