Cool update. Why are the new stands (with blue seats) taller than the older stands (yellow seats) that were built before IPL3. Or does it appear so in this video?

The smaller stands were built so to allow the sea breeze to blow into the stadium. If you see clearly, the gap between the chairs and the roof of these is also large. This along with the gaps between the stands are designed to allow the sea breeze to play a significant role in bowling conditions at the square apart from keeping the stadium much cooler. Chepauk has always been known to be a green house.

View of new pavilion from Anna Pavilion
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5263409965_7a5579a767.jpg

View of A, B, C and G stands from MRTS station in Chepauk.
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5263409727_b872c018b2.jpg

lol...the architects must have saved a lot of time and money as its similar to the previous stadium designed by them.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/9f/Rosebowl.png

Cool update. Why are the new stands (with blue seats) taller than the older stands (yellow seats) that were built before IPL3. Or does it appear so in this video?
of course the newly bulit stands are bigger than the old ones.......but the lower tiers in those stands has less capacities where as the old one has more......

what will be the seating capacity after renovation?

of course the newly bulit stands are bigger than the old ones.......but the lower tiers in those stands has less capacities where as the old one has more......

The smaller stands I was referring to were NOT the old ones. They were part of the first phase of renovation - stands that we built before this year's IPL. Check out the video uploaded by krishnancv from 0:23-0:31. The stands with yellow seats are new stands that have a smaller capacity in the upper tier and seem to be misaligned. As pointed out, that might be a deliberate move to allow sea breeze to flow.

A beautiful view of the New A,B,C Stands by Thiagaraj Thomas
http://i.imgur.com/W7aKw.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/vbw7i.jpg

CR: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/44863424

wow...nice find satish. Its sad that the roof isn't covering the whole seating area.

people who sit in lower tier will def feel hot sun esp in test matches.

Hot Sun & Cricket go together. The die hard fans of Cricket will always manage. It is the Rains which is difficult to manage.

During the last few years, many matches in Chennai have been washed out due to rains.

I have never felt the harsh Sun while watching a cricket test match (I am referring to a period a decade or two back). Of late it is only One Dayer or IPL.

For us, Cricket is more of a Carnival than a mere game. The atmosphere at Chepauk is electric and the TV viewing is no comparison.

I still remember the day when Chika blasted Imran Kahan, while at the other end, Gavaskar was a silent spectator, but enjoying the spectacle. I have never shouted and danced that much again in my life so far. My friends used to bring those special Cymbols (huge ones) and the cacophony used to be very high pitch.

The Madras Cricket match would always be around Pongal in January. We used to finish all the ceremonies at home earlier in the morning and rush to Chepauk by 7am so that we could get good seats. D stand tickets were viewed as Priced Possession.

The present IPL matches are comparable to some extent, but still, the patriotic flavour is missing. I would always feel bad whenever I had to wish Sachin or Dravid getting out by a CSK bowler.

Amid reports that the International Cricket Council (ICC) was unhappy with the pace of re-construction work at two of the stadiums (Wankhede and Eden Gardens) hosting the 2011 World Cup, the secretary of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), K.S. Viswanathan, revealed on Saturday that the ICC was “satisfied” with the progress made at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.

“The ICC had voiced concerns earlier. However, a team from the ICC visited Chepauk on December 6 and was satisfied with the speed of work,” Mr. Viswanathan said.

The TNCA secretary added: “The deadline for the completion of work is January 15, 2011, and we are confident we would be able to finish the job ahead of time here. All major work is almost complete and we only need to install portable roofs on three stands.”

The portable roofs have been imported from Australia. “Putting these roofs in place will not consume much time,” said Viswanathan.

SRC: http://www.hindu.com/2010/12/19/stories/2010121965201600.htm

^^ They're installing the roof on the last two stands now. I was watching bits of the TN-Guj Ranji game on TV.

Any latest pics?
Is renovation work complete?
WC just a few days away.............

Any latest pics?
Is renovation work complete?
WC just a few days away.............

i crossed chepauk a couple of days back.. and i saw roof laying and installation of the chairs for the last stand going on.. hopefully in a week or two's time all work would come to an end..

okay.
Any pics?

Guys just wanted to update that the synthetic roof is up for the whole stadium and all roof related work completed. Only the seatng have to be fixed in section of the stadium.I have taken some pics from MRTS but turned out to be bad vibration. I think they have started clearing lot of construction debris.Everything is in the final lap now. In my personal opinion they can complete all the inner work in another 10 days. Only the landscaping part and some such outer work like boundry walls now remain.

got to tell you compared to before, Chepauk stadium now looks absolutely MAJESTIC. Maybe not very big compared to newer cricket stadiums around, but the open ventilation and newer STANDS gives it a larger than life look.

Vow! What gr8 updates in the last 10 days. I crossed, I saw, I f*ed.....
Now, Dont be a WUS, Shut the fuck Up and post some pics.

^^

No offense here!!! Kindly mind your language!!! :angel1:

Vow! What gr8 updates in the last 10 days. I crossed, I saw, I f*ed.....
Now, Dont be a WUS, Shut the fuck Up and post some pics.

what the hell is this? if pics r possible we'll post it. it doesnt always mean that we need to take snaps to prove our post. we are not ur servants. mind ur language. if u have an update post it. and ask it politely. if u want to believe it believe what we are saying or else just stay in the darkness!

"An England-based firm of architects has been commissioned by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to find a way to increase capacity, provide additional corporate boxes and air-conditioned accommodation, and roof shading in time for the World Cup. More interestingly, they have been asked to try and let the sea breeze in to get the ground's traditional swing back - all this while adhering to the principles of vaastu, and Indian form of feng shui, in design. The plan is to create a series of 12 stands atop a lower bowl of terracing, so the breeze can flow through the horizontal gap between the terrace and the stands."

http://www.espncricinfo.com/travel/content/story/482178.html?city=chennai

Maan, what kind of a comment is this! Be greatful to those who post updates!!

Vow! What gr8 updates in the last 10 days. I crossed, I saw, I f*ed.....
Now, Dont be a WUS, Shut the fuck Up and post some pics.

Vow! What gr8 updates in the last 10 days. I crossed, I saw, I f*ed.....
Now, Dont be a WUS, Shut the fuck Up and post some pics.

You anyway used the f word in the second line. Why censor it in the first line. Always be consistent. Consistency is the hallmark of a cool head.

Having said that, dont post such things in a public forum. It hurts the person who genuinely wants to help others by giving the latest updates. We understand the location, geography, structure of the stadium and so can make a mental picture ourselves with the help of verbal updates. Cheers.

Pl mind your language Maurya. Its a forum to share the knowledge, not to prove anyone' indecency.

I think this is not the place for using F* word. If you are keen on them, there are lot of other forums. Shame on you as well as this thread.

For that somebody who was very impatient. This is the best I could Mr "F" word user. Could capture only from outside while driving that way.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/7862/photo0160j.jpg

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/2135/photo0162t.jpg

http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/1761/photo0163i.jpg

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/3793/photo0164qj.jpg

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/489/photo0165k.jpg

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/3379/photo0167e.jpg

http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/9007/photo0168e.jpg

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/175/photo0169ib.jpg

MRTS opp Chepauk stadium
http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/4087/photo0161d.jpg

Nice snaps pal.

Mr. "F" would be happy now. :lol:



For that somebody who was very impatient. This is the best I could Mr "F" word user. Could capture only from outside while driving that way.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/7862/photo0160j.jpg

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/2135/photo0162t.jpg

http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/1761/photo0163i.jpg

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/3793/photo0164qj.jpg

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/489/photo0165k.jpg

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/3379/photo0167e.jpg

http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/9007/photo0168e.jpg

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/175/photo0169ib.jpg

MRTS opp Chepauk stadium
http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/4087/photo0161d.jpg

Seems the work is over. As somebody commented, Chepauk had a complete makeover and now appears "majestic". After the CWG mess, I was a little worried. These pictures dispels all fears (atleast w.r.t Chennai - I heard 5 grounds are in the process of makeover, hope everything is completed on schedule. We definitely cannot afford another catastrophe). Kudos to the organizing team. Is Chepauk hosting any Indian matches?

Nice work Ezhilan. The pics are neat.

are they planning a new compound wall or perimeter fence made of wrought iron? The current one looks decrepit next to the rebuilt stands

Seems the work is over. As somebody commented, Chepauk had a complete makeover and now appears "majestic". After the CWG mess, I was a little worried. These pictures dispels all fears (atleast w.r.t Chennai - I heard 5 grounds are in the process of makeover, hope everything is completed on schedule. We definitely cannot afford another catastrophe). Kudos to the organizing team. Is Chepauk hosting any Indian matches?

Nice work Ezhilan. The pics are neat.

Thank you TShyam. Totally 4 matches will be played in Chepauk

1. NZ vs Kenya - 20th Feb
2. Eng vs SA - 6th Mar
3. Eng vs WI - 17th Mar
4. Ind vs WI - 20th Mar (The last league match)

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/175/photo0169ib.jpg

MRTS opp Chepauk stadium
http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/4087/photo0161d.jpg

If not for the MK poster, nobody would have beleive this was an indian stadium. The white paint gives the stadium a classy look. Hopefully TNCA will maintain it well and our geniouses will not spit paan on this lovely stadium.


The perimter wall looks an eyesore, I don't think there is enough time to rebuild one, hope they paint it well.

MRTC, please make the station look lively instead of the dull white/green color. Add more colors splash.


For the one who asked about india game, I beleive india plays west indies on march 23 (not sure). Apart from that chepauk hosts 3 league games ie. total of 4 league games.

Thanks for the great efforts Ezhilan81. Pictures are great...

Our Stadium looks way taller than it used to be

Great pics of the stadium - looks good!

Thank you guys. There is a program telecast on ESPN (WC special) called Venue talk and this time it was our own Chepauk. I couldn't find the video of that on the net, but it's being retelecast on 22nd (Sat) at these times:

Venue Talk Chennai
Show Type: Sports
Language: English
Genre: Cricket
Repeats on:
Sat, Jan 22 12:00AM
Sat, Jan 22 8:30AM
Sat, Jan 22 2:30PM

They showed an empty stadium still u/c, but we can get a feel of how the stadium will look like once fully completed.

taken yesterday from MRTS

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5377782566_e646d97c85_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5282/5377182357_f81969007b_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5288/5377182165_2c05423ab9_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5009/5377782088_d69f85a04e_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5377781888_6d47e578fc_b.jpg

^^ thanks arul. Nice pics.

Awesome updates in all the threads Arul - thanks for posting!!

:cheers:

Nice pics Arul.

Do you guys know the total seating capacity (approx) after completion?

Thanks for the pics Arul.. :applause:

Nice pics Arul.

Do you guys know the total seating capacity (approx) after completion?

Yesterday's ESPN show - 'Venue Talk" said it was 38,500.

Photos taken on 22nd Jan 2011

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/2408/dsc3544i.jpg

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/4647/dsc3545o.jpg

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/2783/dsc3546t.jpg

http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/3787/dsc3547.jpg

http://img816.imageshack.us/img816/5748/dsc3548.jpg

wow Arul and Shivakumar!!!! you two are on a roll!!!! i never realized that one trip on the MRS could cover so many threads!!!! great going!!!!!

Its just perfect for an international cricket match... Good job guys...

awesome set of pics.... i have a doubt.. y aren't the bleachers installed in the lower tire???

Great pictures, but wasn't chennai city made a poster free zone some time back.

^^I like everything but for the posters. Hope they would remove them soon. :)

Great pictures, but wasn't chennai city made a poster free zone some time back.

only annal salai & poonthamalle high road

Nice pictures .. Thank for posting Arul.

East and West Stands (3 + 3 yellow colour seats) .. North Stand (Blue colour seats) .. Yet to build South Stand once World Cup and IPL 4 over. South and North Stand (3 + 3 Blue colour seats).

Chennai SuperKings Colours: blue and yellow.

Need more work to be done.! Landscape outside stadium.

Yesterday's ESPN show - 'Venue Talk" said it was 38,500.

This is current capacity. When Anna Pavilion demolish and re-build 3 remaining stands .. we will know what capacity overall.?

^^

For the world cup, the capacity will be 38,500...... thats what the show said....... and ya... later, when they demolish the anna pavilion and build the remaining 3 stands, the capacity is likely to go up. will cross the 40k mark for sure.... :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRjuelTg1VU&feature=channel

VENUE TALK - Chennai.

MA CHIDAMBARAM STADIUM - First Cricket Venue have BLEACHERS SEATs in INDIA :).

Thanks for posting this video. I actually thought the stands are going to be symmetrical on both sides, but now I see that only the stands on the right with yellow seats look shorter than the rest. All the remaining stands look identical and of the same height. Any reason why those stands alone are shorter? Is it just to accommodate sea breeze? If so then aren't the gaps in between the stands enough?

Thanks for posting this video. I actually thought the stands are going to be symmetrical on both sides, but now I see that only the stands on the right with yellow seats look shorter than the rest. All the remaining stands look identical and of the same height. Any reason why those stands alone are shorter? Is it just to accommodate sea breeze? If so then aren't the gaps in between the stands enough?

I read somewhere that Dhoni & team preferred no stands in the eastern Beach side. May be that is the reason.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRjuelTg1VU&feature=channel

VENUE TALK - Chennai.

MA CHIDAMBARAM STADIUM - First Cricket Venue have BLEACHERS SEATs in INDIA :).

Dude, this video is blocked in UK. So can you please give some other source pls? thanks..

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/6466/cpkt.jpg

Looks grand! Job well done.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRjuelTg1VU&feature=channel

VENUE TALK - Chennai.

MA CHIDAMBARAM STADIUM - First Cricket Venue have BLEACHERS SEATs in INDIA :).

lol Cheeka is unstoppable. What a character!

The last pic does not really do justice to the stadium. It looks like a half baked product due to the old anna pavilion. The chair colour scheme looks good, yellow for TN and blue for team india. Well thought out.

For some reason I don't really like the canopy design being used all over the stadium. Maybe they will do a innovative design when they rebuild anna pavilion. Also the back of the stands looks too naked. Maybe they can cover it and also create more shopping space inside the stadium (like more eating choices and memorabilia stores open during the match days). They need not go for fancy glass cladding, just put in some posters of chennai, TN players, india players, ... etc. Just be innovative about it. Also the original renders show the lower ring to be a complete circle with openings for entry; which is not the case in the current stadium.

BTW, where will they have the giant video screen. The gap between stands does not seem good option because,

a, it will hinder the "breeze flow" defeating the whole purpose of keeping gaps
b, The viewing angle will be greatly reduced; it will only serve few stands.


Also any news on landscaping for the WC?

Dude, this video is blocked in UK. So can you please give some other source pls? thanks..

Sorry i have no idea any other source.! U check espnstar.com site n find in video's list.!

MAC cricket stadium is beautiful venue now.! Good Test Cricket Venue. Well Done good work by Hopkins Architects. This ground first cricket venue roped foreign architect.

It is going different ball game when Test match will play at this venue. May be specially bounce track.

Dude, this video is blocked in UK. So can you please give some other source pls? thanks..

Try this :)
http://www.espnstar.com/cricket/icc-cricket-world-cup/venues/detail/item163152/

^^ Thanks.. :cheers:

AYKfumcC

Same video from same source for easy viewing.

^^ Thanks for the gr8 video! :cheers:

The glass covered part of the stands will provide air-conditioned facilities for those who can afford it. That's nice! :cheers: Hope they transform the rest of the stands in the stadium fully after the WC and IPL.

Also, nice stats from the MD of TN tourism - there are only 911 heritage centers in the world; of that 22 are in India and of that 5 are in TN!! :cheers: No wonder TN attracts max foreign tourists. :cheers:

Same video from same source for easy viewing.

Thanks

^^ Wrong thread? :?

Multiple tabs open I guess.. :D

^^ Wrong thread? :?

Multiple tabs open I guess.. :D

Sorry guys. Ferrari fan is true.. Can any one move it to GST Roads thread?

Hey guys, does anyone know if the lower tier is also going to have those bucket seats, that are fixed on the top tier?

Deleted

^^ excellent justification from our officials :ohno:

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5381/234674933.jpg

source: twitter

Superb news.... That wall has done a brilliant job by collapsing on the right time.... Now let the blame game begins ....

Looks like a low compound wall. Nothing major. They should stop people leaning on it when the cement is not dry.

So a freshly cemented wall is collapsed...is that really news worthy? I mean maybe its news worthy for journalists, but does it really require the merit to post such crap on this forum? :nuts: oh well, let the compound wall spin machine begin... I blame Laxman Shivaramakrishnan....

Looks like a low compound wall. Nothing major. They should stop people leaning on it when the cement is not dry.

Yep. My friend was there during the incident. Its too minor. deleting my original post.....

Scenes at Chepauk Ticket Counter when they started issuing the tickets for WC

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/322011/slm0302fe12pgspo01.jpg

Scenes at Chepauk Ticket Counter when they started issuing the tickets for WC

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/322011/slm0302fe12pgspo01.jpg

Perhaps the womens queue was less and some smart guys have asked those ladies to buy tickets for them.

+1 pic

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/6465/3354265.jpg

Perhaps the womens queue was less and some smart guys have asked those ladies to buy tickets for them.

Experience speaks!

Perhaps the womens queue was less and some smart guys have asked those ladies to buy tickets for them.

Either that or they will be trying to sell them in black market.

So a freshly cemented wall is collapsed...is that really news worthy? I mean maybe its news worthy for journalists, but does it really require the merit to post such crap on this forum? :nuts: oh well, let the compound wall spin machine begin... I blame Laxman Shivaramakrishnan....

No it is N Srinivasan's fault. He supplied bad quality cement. The next tweet from modi will be: "NS purposefully did this with goons so he can sell more cement to TNCA"

Either that or they will be trying to sell them in black market.
+100

Scenes at Chepauk Ticket Counter when they started issuing the tickets for WC

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/322011/slm0302fe12pgspo01.jpg

What the hell this crowds scence.? are tamilian crazy.! TNCA should give tickets sale at Bank, Post Office or outside from stadium.! instead of giving tickets at stadium box.! It is still preparation world cup venue (few work outside landscape, wall, parking space and other work to be done) .. Why now TICKETS sale at stadium.? Poor TNCA.!

Everytime we must show shameless news.!

+1 pic

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/6465/3354265.jpg

now This is bigger than RAJNI MANIA opening day release.! :lol:

What the hell this crowds scence.? are tamilian crazy.! TNCA should give tickets sale at Bank, Post Office or outside from stadium.! instead of giving tickets at stadium box.! It is still preparation world cup venue (few work outside landscape, wall, parking space and other work to be done) .. Why now TICKETS sale at stadium.? Poor TNCA.!

Everytime we must show shameless news.!

Why the hell is "Tamilian" brought in every single time? Arent Hyderabadis crazy about cricket? Do you know for sure TNCA is not selling tickets anywhere else? FYI tickets are sold online too!! The construction is over and and if some monkeys climbed on the wall and damaged it, what can TNCA do? What is "shameless" about being cricket crazy? If you are talking about compound wall being damaged, it is just an accident. No one did it intentionally or indulged in vandalism. Anyway what is "stadium box"?? Never heard of the term. You have no idea about stadiums and how tickets are given out do you?

Why the hell is "Tamilian" brought in every single time? Arent Hyderabadis crazy about cricket? Do you know for sure TNCA is not selling tickets anywhere else? FYI tickets are sold online too!! The construction is over and and if some monkeys climbed on the wall and damaged it, what can TNCA do? What is "shameless" about being cricket crazy? If you are talking about compound wall being damaged, it is just an accident. No one did it intentionally or indulged in vandalism. Anyway what is "stadium box"?? Never heard of the term. You have no idea about stadiums and how tickets are given out do you?

+1

@vwnki04sss
Tickets for most of the stands are sold online. Some stands (lower denomination ones) are not sold online for people not preferring the online route. Not everyone has net access and credit cards. This is true for all the other venues as well.

Also selling it on the counter add more local population to the ground; as they are the ones who will brave sun and rain to buy these tickets.


Why should TNCA have someone else (banks, ... etc) sell their tickets when they can do it themselves?

It was an accident. It was a recently constructed wall, whose cement has not even dried. Some people leaned on it and this was bound to happen.

I can agree with you if you said TNCA should have cordoned off the area and not allowed people anywhere near the wall; but to blame them for selling tickets in the counter and bringing "tamilian" is just ridiculous.

but why cant they have just a little more counters? Everyone will be happy.

^^ That they could have done

Chennai ground to host one day international matches after very long time.
This craze may have drove most of them to the stadium...

^^^ MAC recently hosted India-NZL game just some time back... Chennai crowd will attend all games even if they play a match every week

What the hell this crowds scence.? are tamilian crazy.! TNCA should give tickets sale at Bank, Post Office or outside from stadium.! instead of giving tickets at stadium box.! It is still preparation world cup venue (few work outside landscape, wall, parking space and other work to be done) .. Why now TICKETS sale at stadium.? Poor TNCA.!

Everytime we must show shameless news.!

TNCA should also include TASMAC:cheers::cheers:http://www.skyscrapercity.com/images/smilies/beer.gif for issuing ticket....

Experience speaks!

Yes, at cinema theatres.

I ve never watched a cricket match in the stadium. Once I got ticket for India Vs Pakistan match but it was cancelled due to rain :(

Y' Day rush only for WI-India match.As per Sun News, counters empty and few takers for other matches.

Its not oly for IND-WI match....Even for SA-ENG tickets were sold equally the same....Yesterday i saw in sun news that around 30,000 tickets are kept for sale ....but im sure that they've nt issued 25% of those...So whats the prob with TNCA????They always block tickets its not happening in other indian cities....

Whenever match tickets are sold, the slum people around Chepauk gather around and buy them. Later they sell them in the black market for huge sums. That is why they crowd the ticketing place. Almost on every occasion when the media releases the pics of the ticket sales, slum dwellers can be seen.

Sometimes rich folks, employ those people to buy on their behalf.

Its not oly for IND-WI match....Even for SA-ENG tickets were sold equally the same....Yesterday i saw in sun news that around 30,000 tickets are kept for sale ....but im sure that they've nt issued 25% of those...So whats the prob with TNCA????They always block tickets its not happening in other indian cities....

Most of the tickets are blocked for the sponsors, VIP quotas. It happens everywhere.

Most of the tickets are blocked for the sponsors, VIP quotas. It happens everywhere.

This is the most frustrating thing about going to a sports event in India. Majority of the tickets that are supposed to be sold at the counter will all be distributed among the sponsors, TNCA, employees, big ppl, etc. They will say, we will sell, say, 20,000 tickets, but they will most likely sell 5000 tickets and close the counter abruptly.

My experience with IPL is that it is better to go through a sponsor.

Getting a ticket at the counter is very difficult and one has to go in the early morning to get a ticket (before the counter closes). The TNCA staff treats you like dirt.

As a forumer said, the nearby slum dwellers buy early and sell at a premium. Once, my friend had to pay Rs. 2000/- for a Rs. 500 ticket. (His son was so adamant).

One Day matches and World Cup matches will also be popular.

But the experience at the Chepauk stadium is electric. TV is no match.

Especially IPL matches starts in the evening and so relatively convenient. Chennai weather is also better in the evening with Sea Breeze.

Gather a crowd and enjoy the match.

the experience at the Chepauk stadium is electric. TV is no match.

Especially IPL matches starts in the evening and so relatively convenient. Chennai weather is also better in the evening with Sea Breeze.

Gather a crowd and enjoy the match.

Next when you go to Chepauk, hold a banner "Hi to Skyscrapercity forumers" we will see you in TV.

^^ :cheer:

My experience with IPL is that it is better to go through a sponsor.

Getting a ticket at the counter is very difficult and one has to go in the early morning to get a ticket (before the counter closes). The TNCA staff treats you like dirt.

As a forumer said, the nearby slum dwellers buy early and sell at a premium. Once, my friend had to pay Rs. 2000/- for a Rs. 500 ticket. (His son was so adamant).

One Day matches and World Cup matches will also be popular.

But the experience at the Chepauk stadium is electric. TV is no match.

Especially IPL matches starts in the evening and so relatively convenient. Chennai weather is also better in the evening with Sea Breeze.

Gather a crowd and enjoy the match.

Absolutely right. The best thing to do is not to go to the counter. Actually, my bad experiences were with the Chennai Open tennis! They sell out like 100 tickets for the finals. The best thing to do is to get the "season ticket" for all the games. Eventually, it might work out cheaper! :)

Unfortunately, I won't be in India for the cricket world cup :(

My experience with IPL is that it is better to go through a sponsor.

Getting a ticket at the counter is very difficult and one has to go in the early morning to get a ticket (before the counter closes). The TNCA staff treats you like dirt.

As a forumer said, the nearby slum dwellers buy early and sell at a premium. Once, my friend had to pay Rs. 2000/- for a Rs. 500 ticket. (His son was so adamant).

One Day matches and World Cup matches will also be popular.

But the experience at the Chepauk stadium is electric. TV is no match.

Especially IPL matches starts in the evening and so relatively convenient. Chennai weather is also better in the evening with Sea Breeze.

Gather a crowd and enjoy the match.

Apdiya solreenga?? I purchased tickets for IPL 1 and IPL 3 in counter only (500 Rs).. and had no problems !!But you are right about the attitude of TNCA staff at the ticket counter.

http://www.icccwc2011.kyazoonga.com/tickets/index/

20000 rupee ticket for ac box pavillion terrace!!

Apdiya solreenga?? I purchased tickets for IPL 1 and IPL 3 in counter only (500 Rs).. and had no problems !!But you are right about the attitude of TNCA staff at the ticket counter.
Yeah ur rite dude...Even i'd no problems for getting tickets for IPL 1 n 3....And i got 200rs tickets in the counters only....I was there at 8am .....counters had less crowd may be around 25 persons or less....And they issued more tickets.....But now the total scenario is different...most of the tickets are blocked....they keep selling oly 500/1000 that too very limited....and most of the people had cum from various places to watch the world cup early mrng they reached and they were eager to get the tickets...but unfortunately they cudnt....Sum where ready to pay more for other classes but still they dint issue the tickets...they display a print out showing sold out....But during the match stadium almost looks empty and ll have 75% occupancy...but y they block tickets n claim tickets r sold out???

Next when you go to Chepauk, hold a banner "Hi to Skyscrapercity forumers" we will see you in TV.

good idea... :banana:

Does anybody know of any Disabled facilities in the renovated MAC stadium. Being a disabled person myself and have visited some of the best sporting arenas in the world, for example, the MCG in Melbourne and O2 Arena in London, i am expecting special enclosures for disabled people in the newly renovated stadium. In fact i have managed to see some of the epic tests at the MAC all these years. Could anybody give some info on the facilities.

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/1122011/FE_1102_ph1_01_Cni.jpg

Chepauk - all set to host WC matches!

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/1122011/FE_1102_ph1_01_Cni.jpg

Chepauk - all set to host WC matches!

yuppie:banana::banana::banana:..Chepauk is now all set to host the WC....

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/1122011/FE_1102_ph1_01_Cni.jpg

Chepauk - all set to host WC matches!

beautiful. This stadium is good enough to host a WC final. I just hope the outfield is lush green and they don't attempt to show-off any patterns like they did in IPL.

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/1122011/FE_1102_ph1_01_Cni.jpg

Chepauk - all set to host WC matches!

2nd Phase renovation 101% DONE.! Get ready world cup.

Why east stand .. lower tier seats colour different.? why not yellow.? poor TNCA officials.!

http://p.imgci.com/db/PICTURES/CMS/128000/128097.jpg

courtsey : AP

lol...i realised only now that the seats are in csk colours.

looks good hope it will look more gorgeous than current view while watching it on LIVE match...:)

http://news.oneindia.in/2011/02/12/smithterms-chepauk-wicket-as-underprepared-aid0126.html

Rival captains Graeme Smith and Elton Chigumbura termed that the wicket at the Chepauk was"under-prepared" and hoped that the wickets are perhaps prepared better for the World Cup tournament proper.

"The wicket was pretty slow and dead. Yet, Morne Morkel,who bowled well in in South Africa had carried the form here.

I was standing in the slips and I must say that he manage to hit the deck well," he said.

Explaining the conditions today, Smith said, "You can get it tricky. The wickets probably will get slower and slower.

Tonight there were a few things. There was quite a lot of dew and it is a bit disappointing on that factor when lot of day-night games are played in this conditions."

"I feel the wickets are probably better prepared for the World Cup proper as coming to those games the wickets will give a lot more tension."

More buses from MTC for world cup

http://epaper.dinamani.com/epaperimages/1222011/12022011-cni-mn-07/2315662.JPG

Warm up match India Vs NewZealand at Chepauk

comment from cricinfo

14.23 The Chepauk stadium is quite unrecognisable. Beautiful white canopies, very Adelaide style, over the stands. Huge gaps between the stands, apparently to allow the sea breeze come in and aid swing. The Marina beach is a stone's throw away if you have a very strong arm.

:):)

Cricinfo (http://www.espncricinfo.com/icc_cricket_worldcup2011/engine/current/match/473333.html)

The Marina beach is a stone's throw away if you have a very strong arm.

:lol:

Playing so many IPL matches in chennai, today Raina & dhoni entertained chennai chepauk crowd without any trouble. hope they got form on right time. Lets c how ashwin shines

Capacity crowd at MAC ground for India Vs New Zealand warm up match
Source : ESPN CricInfo.

http://s4.postimage.org/vj69eg0n8/MAC_Chennai.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8134/chepauk.jpg

cricinfo

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8134/chepauk.jpg

cricinfo

i can see that many seats are empty. also the ac boxes in the middle tier of the new stands look deserted....

^^ Just look at the size of the new stands ! The pavilion looks tiny in comparison.

It looks fabulous :banana:

cheapest tickets are on the lower left stand in the image, 500 rs
those ac boxes cost 10k and 20k.
That should give coolmukund his answer. Who would want to spend so much on a warmup game?

no. those are the cost for WC matches and not warm up matches. the ticket costs were between rs50 to 500 for yday's match. and ac boxes were not available for sale.

i can see that many seats are empty. also the ac boxes in the middle tier of the new stands look deserted....

AC boxes tickets were not sold for the warm up match...and besides this pic was taken during the NZ batting whereas during India's batting our stadium was almost full....Lets wait for Ind-WI match

https://picasaweb.google.com/maxwell.proton/TNCAProject#

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8134/chepauk.jpg

cricinfo

The outfield could have been better - it is better than what was before, for sure; but, let us now compare ourselves with the best in the world!!

AC boxes tickets were not sold for the warm up match...and besides this pic was taken during the NZ batting whereas during India's batting our stadium was almost full....Lets wait for Ind-WI match

Did you feel the cool Sea breeze across the staduim, coming thro' those gaps created in the new design?

Or still remains an oven?

My son went for the Newzealand match and he says that the stadium looks the best. Pavilion - still not completely done, it seems.

Am waiting for the IPL matches.

^^
FYI
They have not touched the Pavilion till now. They will demolish it only after the ipl and build three new stands there.

The stadium looks fantastic :banana:, i feel it could have been better if the seats were not yellow. :cheers:

Still chairs are used here and there in previous match, when they going to fix the bucket seats to the whole stadium?.

The stadium looks fantastic :banana:, i feel it could have been better if the seats were not yellow. :cheers:

Still chairs are used here and there in previous match, when they going to fix the bucket seats to the whole stadium?.

I feel yellow is a good choice. It gives a bright feel, whereas blue looks dull. White is not good for our country.

I feel yellow is a good choice. It gives a bright feel, whereas blue looks dull. White is not good for our country.

Yellow is to represent CSK and blue for India.

CSK can try to identify 1 more new venue in TN(either TPJ or CBE).
TPJ will be ideal as it is center of TN.
They can try to host 1 or 2 matches with the initial cost of getting good temp stadium.
Since Srini is going to be next BCCI President, this is the best time, that TNCA can push for 1 more venue in TN.

Did you feel the cool Sea breeze across the staduim, coming thro' those gaps created in the new design?

Or still remains an oven?

It was exactly 1:59 when i stepped into the stands....and it was damn hot...As the roof could shelter oly for the upper tier the lower tier fans became victims of the hot sun.....But after 5 the sun went down n slowly i felt the sea breeze....and after 7 the climate was fine.....

CSK can try to identify 1 more new venue in TN(either TPJ or CBE).
TPJ will be ideal as it is center of TN.
They can try to host 1 or 2 matches with the initial cost of getting good temp stadium.
Since Srini is going to be next BCCI President, this is the best time, that TNCA can push for 1 more venue in TN.

Its all about the money honey!! That kind of move wont go well with the sponsors. Tickets wont command such a price if the venue is shifted. Afterall IPL is more of a business than sports.

BCCI can incorporate a tier 2 competition where the winner will be eligible to play in IPL the next season and the last place team in IPL will be relegated to tier 2 league like European soccer leagues.

CSK can try to identify 1 more new venue in TN(either TPJ or CBE).
TPJ will be ideal as it is center of TN.
They can try to host 1 or 2 matches with the initial cost of getting good temp stadium.
Since Srini is going to be next BCCI President, this is the best time, that TNCA can push for 1 more venue in TN.

Few years back TNCA planned to build a new stadium in Coimbatore near Avila Convent. It didnt take off once they started focusing on building a new stadium in Karunkuzhipalam but that too was dropped due to connecvity problems.

Are there no Coimbatore based businessmen in TNCA who can lobby for the city??

One more great news for chennaitees to cheeer.....Inauguration of IPL,one semi final and finals to be played at the Chennai chepauk.....

It was exactly 1:59 when i stepped into the stands....and it was damn hot...As the roof could shelter oly for the upper tier the lower tier fans became victims of the hot sun.....But after 5 the sun went down n slowly i felt the sea breeze....and after 7 the climate was fine.....
Thats why most matches in Chennai are D/N!!

One more great news for chennaitees to cheeer.....Inauguration of IPL,one semi final and finals to be played at the Chennai chepauk.....

is it? great! ;)

Do you know who is the creative director/event management co. for the function? ?

lol..there are only 4 matches for the wc and two are day matches..

Since Srini is going to be next BCCI President, this is the best time, that TNCA can push for 1 more venue in TN.

I dont think BCCI gives money to build stadiums.

Is it possible to carve out a new Chennai Cricket Association (CCA) from TNCA?

One more great news for chennaitees to cheeer.....Inauguration of IPL,one semi final and finals to be played at the Chennai chepauk.....

Are you sure about the semi-final? I doubt semi-final will be slotted to Chennai since we are already getting final.

A provisional fixture has been released but it subjective because of elections in TN & WB.

Chennai hosts Inaugural, one of the semi finals and the Finals apart from regular matches.

See more info here : http://www.ipl-schedule.com/ipl-2011-schedule

I cant assure on the authenticity of the website and info though!

Chennai hosts the 2nd Semis (Qualifiers) between the 3rd and 4th placed teams.

The winner of this match will go Mumbai to play their second Qualifier against the losing team in the 1st Semis.

A provisional fixture has been released but it subjective because of elections in TN & WB.

Chennai hosts Inaugural, one of the semi finals and the Finals apart from regular matches.

See more info here : http://www.ipl-schedule.com/ipl-2011-schedule

I cant assure on the authenticity of the website and info though!

^^ i don't think it's from a valid source. Coz, all the matches in Hyd will be a doubt due to T-issue. Given the same reason, there are no WC matches as well there.

Given the same reason, there are no WC matches as well there.
WC matches are not there in Hyd, since BCCI has given only 8 centers to ICC 2-3 yrs ago. Venues are not decided in the last year.

The ICC Cricket World Cup begins on Saturday and from an economist’s standpoint it would be interesting to see if there are any indications of shifts in consumers’ attitudes towards the one-day international (ODI) format. Specifically, will there be any changes in consumer behaviour in comparison to the previous World Cups—a time when Twenty20s (T20s) did not exist—as evidenced by measures of demand such as attendance at the stadiums, viewership on television and revenues to the ICC?

The method of economic analysis

The method of economic analysis consists of postulating theories to explain observed economic phenomena, deriving testable hypotheses from the theory, and empirically testing the hypothesis using data and statistical techniques. In my previous column, I hypothesized that which format or formats of cricket survive in the long run will generally depend on the fans’ opportunity costs of watching cricket and their preference for the mode of cricketing entertainment—fast-paced games with hard hitting, as opposed to slower, strategy-driven games where bowling and batting matter.

Once the dust settles on this World Cup, a clearer picture will emerge with regard to demand trends, and we will analyse data collected from individuals who consider themselves “cricket buffs”, in a survey commissioned by this newspaper, to see if there is support for the hypothesis that we put forth in the previous column regarding consumer demand.

Does opportunity cost matter?

If the opportunity cost of watching cricket increases due to an increase in consumers’ income or the availability of other forms of entertainment, then in the long run consumers are likely to switch to shorter versions of the game. The survey reveals that the most significant reason why the respondents do not watch the games live is that the timing clashes with office and college hours. Obviously, watching a game becomes secondary when the time could be used for more productive purposes such as earning income or increasing earning capacity in the future.

The family wanting to watch some other programme on TV is cited as the next most important reason for not watching cricket live on TV. While this does not clearly indicate the preference of the respondent in terms of other entertainment options on TV, it does indicate that as these increase, cricket viewership falls.

A significant number of the respondents (31% overall) indicated that they have stopped watching ODIs after the advent of T20 cricket. While this could be the result of the availability of an entertainment option that has a lower opportunity cost—T20s—it could also be the result of fans’ preference for a fast-paced game. Nevertheless, one could view this cannibalization rate of 31% in a matter of merely three-and-a-half years as a significant trend, and further support our hypothesis that opportunity cost matters.

In addition, the overall distribution of those who watch the various formats of the game is indicative of the importance of the opportunity cost of watching cricket. An overwhelming majority of the respondents watch the relatively shorter ODIs and T20s (87% overall) as opposed to Test cricket. Interestingly, when one looks at the age-wise breakdown, we observe that individuals aged 41 and above, including retirees (who tend to have a lower opportunity cost in terms of earnings capability), prefer Test cricket marginally compared with younger respondents.

A closer look at the behavioural side

While one can make general assertions about consumer behaviour as it relates to sensitivity to price, taste and preference, at the more micro-level, various behavioural factors come into play. For instance, how does culture affect the fan following at the city level?

The survey shows that the Chennai fan is very different from the rest of the country. In fact, to a large extent, the behaviour and attitude of the Chennai fan seem to support the hypothesis that ODIs will be displaced in the long run as they would not have a distinct fan base as separate from Test and T20 cricket. The majority of the respondents (55%) from Chennai feel ODIs are not relevant any longer, and 78% claim to have stopped watching ODIs after the advent of T20.

Curiously, however, a large majority of the respondents (60%) from Chennai prefer Test matches, while only 3% follow T20s. This is striking given the fact that in terms of income, Chennai has the largest percentage of respondents (60%) whose household income is Rs. 3-5 lakh, with 50% of that group having household income greater than Rs. 5 lakh. Therefore, it is clearly not just opportunity cost that is driving the Chennai fan’s preference.

Recent developments in economic research have focused on factors that are behavioural in nature as opposed to those that would be considered purely economic to explain consumer behaviour, especially behaviour that would have previously been considered irrational by economists. For instance, in the context of the survey results, is there a cultural element at the individual city level that would explain customers’ preference as it relates to cricket formats? Chennai is among the oldest cricket centres in India, and the fans are considered to be very traditional and knowledgeable about the game. Does this explain the preponderance of Test cricket over the newer formats of the game, even though the economic factors would indicate otherwise?

Another observation from the survey that supports the cultural argument is the fact that while 8% of respondents started watching cricket after the advent of the Indian Premier League across all the cities surveyed, the percentage was markedly higher in cities that have traditionally not been cricket centres, such as Ludhiana (15%), Ahmedabad (18%) and Pune (12%).

What does this mean?

Is the cricketing landscape changing, at least as it relates to demand for the various formats? While more will be revealed as time goes by, the survey does bring out some interesting information.

The survey provides a snapshot of the views of around 1,000 cricket fans. While it is hard to draw conclusive inferences about the future of any particular format of the game, it does seem that T20s are having an impact on the other formats. Even within three-and-a-half years since its introduction, T20s seem to have made significant inroads—31% of the respondents claim to have stopped watching ODIs since the advent of T20s, 32% claim to watch the T20 format the most, 28% think ODIs are not relevant any more, and 8% of the respondents say they started following cricket after the advent of T20 cricket.

http://www.livemint.com/2011/02/17203310/A-snapshot-of-consumer-behavio.html

Are you sure about the semi-final? I doubt semi-final will be slotted to Chennai since we are already getting final.

yes dude.....Official fixtures been updated in BCCI's site.
http://bcci.tv/bcci/bccitv/community/ipl/fixture

I agree with Mr>krishnasamy.....TN now badly needs another international stadium which can host ODI's atleast once in two years....And coimbatore will be the best option for that....As far as am concerned after chennai its cbe which will draw huge crowds for a cricket match.....Chennai will keep hosting test matches n IPL where as the other venue can be used for hosting ODI's.....During WC ticket reservation i could see loads of ppl coming frm CBE for watching INd-WI clash.....

I dont think BCCI gives money to build stadiums.

Is it possible to carve out a new Chennai Cricket Association (CCA) from TNCA?

TNCA will be financially responsible for the stadiums in TN and they may have to depend on the Corporate sponsors.

BCCI can indirectly help by allotting more matches and so more gate collections / advt revenue etc.

On the lighter side, we have 2 clubs operating in the stadium.

Already there is a big fight going on between MCC - Madras Cricket Club (which is in the Pavilion side) and TNCA Club (which is in the Walajah Road / Chepauk station side). TNCA Club is controlled by Srinivasan, whereas MCC is the traditional old club with long hostory and elected bodies.

I always enjoy the ambience at MCC and often one will have a chance of rubbing shoulders with the great cricketers - Past & Present.

BCCI,I remember has given Rs 50 crores to every Association to build Stadiums-2008-2010 .TNCA too would have used that money to rebuild MAC.

TNCA allots some Ranji trophy matches to India Cements grounds at Tirunelveli.

Gujarat and Maharastra have got three Cricket associations.(Mumbai,Maharashtra,Vidharba;Gujarat,Baroda and Sourashtra)

Hence there is more chances for players to represent 1 st class cricket.

Tamil Nadu too can develop two more associations.

Association fight continues between Mr A C Muthiah,Srinivasan and Mammen(SPIC-India Cements-MRF)

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_NaLPwRJfWXc/TV4NIZYwsyI/AAAAAAAAAwM/bRMPWdbbydQ/IMG_2203.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_NaLPwRJfWXc/TV4NI6L6UPI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/wKmqxvSF6wg/IMG_2204.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_NaLPwRJfWXc/TV4NJeZSAoI/AAAAAAAAAwU/y8__M7LwnL8/IMG_2205.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_NaLPwRJfWXc/TV4NbCapfJI/AAAAAAAAAys/v1aSU3W8C4k/IMG_2246.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_NaLPwRJfWXc/TV4NnLoWR3I/AAAAAAAAA0Y/4Wx_wcD4G8c/IMG_2275.JPG

More: https://picasaweb.google.com/karthikgowrisankar/ChepaukPhotos#

when i went in 2008, they had just 1 screen and it is not visible to 2-3 stands. Did they have one more TV screen?

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/cricket-world-cup-2011/news/New-look-Chepauk-dressed-up-for-World-Cup-and-the-future/articleshow/7531718.cms

The summer is slowly setting in over Chennai. The one place that you would have preferred to avoid in this heat over the years was the MA Chidambaram Stadium (MAC). Not now. Not anymore. It seems that a magician has used his magic wand to turn the stadium around. Gone are the concrete stands, the dusty corners, the ugly pillars and the excruciating heat that made cricket viewing a difficult experience at the historic ground.

A lovely sea breeze blows through the new stands and it will make life a lot easier for the players when the ball rolls for the New Zealand-Kenya World Cup game on Sunday. Former Tamil Nadu and India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth talked about this "lovely Bay of Bengal breeze" as he went ga-ga over the new-look Chepauk. "This breeze will change the dynamics of the game at the stadium.

While the fans will breathe a sigh of relief, the players, too, will feel comforted on a hot and sunny Chennai day," Srikkanth said.
Earlier, the stadium used to be one solid concrete structure while in the present scenario, there is gap between each of the stands, which allows the sea breeze to pass. Dr Natrajan, the joint secretary of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, said that the game too would see a change. "The ball will swing around more due to the breeze and the game will change from session to session," Natrajan said.

The huge pillars that used to block the view at the old stadium has also been demolished. The swanky roof, installed by British and American designers, is held together by cables imported from China. "Now that the pillars have been removed no one will have to get up from their seats to have a full view of the ground. It's an absolutely wonderful construction, easily the best in India," Natrajan said.

The new chairs, too, have been imported from Austria and there's more leg space for the fans. "We have got raving reviews from people who watched the two practice matches. It does feel satisfying to know that all the hard work is paying off," Natrajan added.
Earlier, the total capacity of the stadium was 42,000, but for now, it has come down to 38,000. A portion of the reconstruction is still left which the TNCA authorities will start after the IPL and the capacity should reach 43,000. "Our total expenses will be close to Rs 200 crore. We went about it in an organised manner and that's why the cost never went through the roof," the joint secretary said.

Currently, there are nine stands and it's divided into three tiers, the middle being fully air-conditioned. The stands are at a gradient of 36 degrees, which gives the feeling of being in an amphitheatre. "The view is absolutely wonderful from every corner of the ground. It's like being in one of those big soccer stadiums where World Cup matches were played," a South African journalist who covered World Cup football, said. Another South African, who is currently in Chennai as the New Zealand bowling coach, also lauded the stadium. "I came here during my playing days in 1996. Since then it has gone to a different level altogether," Allan Donald said. Comparing it with the cricket stadiums of South Africa, he added: "In our country, the cricket stadiums do not have such huge capacity. To have a stadium of this quality with 40,000 capacity is absolutely mind-blowing."

Srikkanth, too, echoed Donald's views. "The Indian players were thrilled seeing the new stadium. All of them were ecstatic. Most of them have played here quite a few times, but the general reaction from them was that this is the best stadium in the country at the moment," Srikkanth said.
Post Sunday, MAC hosts three more games—March 6 (England-South Africa), March 17 (England vs WI) and March 21 (India vs West Indies). Everyone associated with the reconstruction are eagerly waiting for the matches. "The last three games will be full-house. We're waiting for the international cricket fraternity to come and appreciate our work," Natrajan said.

Given the facilities, look and the quality of the arena, one can be rest assured that from now on, MA Chidambaram Stadium will be regarded as one of the best cricket centres of the world.

THE BEST OF CHEPAUK DOWN THE YEARS

February 10, 1952 |

India notched up their first-ever Test win when they beat England by an innings and eight runs. Vinoo Mankad was the star of the show with 12 wickets.

Sept 22, 1986 |

The second tied Test in history. India, chasing 348 for a win in the 4th innings, were bowled out for 347 in the last over. Sunil Gavaskar scored a valiant 90 in the 2nd innings.

Oct 9, 1987 |

India's first match of the 1987 World Cup. India lost to Australia by one run, Geoff Marsh of Australia scored 110. For India, local boy Krishnamachari Srikkanth scored 70.

Jan 31, 1999 |

Sachin Tendulkar's valiant 136 goes in waste as India lose by 12 runs against Pakistan in the first ever Test between the two countries after 10 years.

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00479/17MP_MAC_STADIUM_479303f.jpg

^^

Chepauk's new innings
S. DINAKAR

A rebuilt M.A. Chidambaram Stadium is ready to host four matches in the ICC ODI World Cup. What does N. Srinivasan, secretary and president-elect BCCI, have to say about the transformation?

Evening's different hues form a tapestry of light on the dome-shaped roofs that resemble giant umbrellas. The M.A. Chidambaram Stadium is sublime in its new avatar. Cricket's timeless venue is decked up for the big occasion.

Aesthetically pleasing structures have replaced what was once a concrete jungle. Breeze from the Bay of Bengal now flows through the large gaps between the stands. The ambience soothes one's senses.

Predictably, N. Srinivasan, secretary and president-elect BCCI, is a happy man. Known in the cricketing circles as a strong, tough-talking person, who gets things done, he is delighted with what his team has achieved.

Great team effort

Srinivasan, also the TNCA president, said, “I feel very proud that, collectively, we have managed to build such a wonderful stadium in Chennai. The TNCA is very fortunate to have men such as K.S. Viswanathan (secretary) and Murray Raghavan (infrastructure committee chairman) and their team that has done an excellent job to get the work finished on time.''

He added, “In a public body, you can get results if you have no other agenda. I have always followed that principle.”

This, easily, is the finest cricket stadium in the country, even better than the slightly compressed Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. The quality of construction and the facilities are truly world class.

The stadium, which will cost around Rs.192 crore when work is fully complete, is slated to host the four matches in the forthcoming ICC ODI World Cup, including the key clash between India and the West Indies on March 20.

Mr. Srinivasan said, “We have worked within a limited time-span and space. You will get the full picture once the pavilion is complete. We will take up that work after the IPL.”

Gone are the huge pillars that often blocked the view in the old stadium. The light state-of-the-art roof called Quad Conical Geometric Form is held together by cables imported from China. Bird Air, an American firm, is the designer, while engineers from Australia (from Tyio Membrane) have carried out the installation work.

There is more room and space in the stands; the chairs have been imported from Australia. And the entrances are dotted with sleek turnstiles, bought from Austria.

Importantly, ingredients, including CCTV, the latest fire fighting equipment, and emergency exits, enhance the security apparatus. As Srinivasan pointed out, a pathway circling the stadium makes it more accessible for the spectators.

Another feature of the stadium is that the boundary line can be spotted from anywhere in the stands. The stadium can, now, accommodate 38,000 spectators. This will increase to 42,000 once work at the TNCA pavilion and the MCC stand is over. At present, Chepauk sports as many as nine new stands.

These consist of three tiers with the middle one, fully air-conditioned, being the Hospitality Box. Hopkins, England and Natraj & Venkat, Chennai, are the chief architects.

The media box can seat 200 presspersons; the journalists will be supported by Wi-fi, computers, printers, and scanners. The media conference hall can accommodate around 300 persons.

The stands are at a gradient of 36 degrees. By international standards, this is not too steep. The enclosures at the venue in Cape Town have a gradient of 45 degrees.

Of course, with sea breeze flowing into the ground, the players too will receive some respite from humidity. The dynamics of a contest will also be altered; the pacemen could achieve more swing while the spinners have a better chance of getting the ball to drift.

Maintaining the re-constructed stadium, Srinivasan said, would be a massive exercise in itself. “We require a full-fledged team to ensure that the stands remain in the best possible condition.”

The stands gleam even as light bounces off the roofs. Then, a gust of wind refreshes body and mind. Cricket enters a new era at Chepauk.

Source : http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article1461105.ece

Where history is made

Some of Indian cricket's most remarkable moments are associated with the Chennai stadium

For long, cricket in Chennai has been associated with the spectators who turn out at the Chepauk: they have been regarded as the most knowledgeable cricket fans in the country. An overwhelmed Pakistan even took a lap of honour when the crowd gave them a standing ovation after they won a thriller there in 1999.

Test cricket in Chennai used to coincide with the Pongal (Harvest) festival in January, though that tradition has been done away with in the recent times.

The Indian Cricket Federation staged what is now acknowledged as the first cricket league in India when it conducted a competition for the clubs of Madras in 1932. Club cricket has endured in Chennai since and these days city boasts an enviable club structure, marked by fierce competition and by how rival corporate bodies "support" privately owned clubs.

The venue
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, better known as Chepauk Stadium, was established in 1916, and has a capacity of 50,000. The first Test played here was in February 1934, between India and England, and the stadium has also hosted games in the 1987 and 1996 ICC Cricket World Cups. The first-ever Ranji Trophy match was played here, in which AG Ram Singh took 11 wickets on a sticky to bowl Madras to a win over Mysore within a day. India recorded their first Test win here, in 1951-52, when they defeated England by an innings and eight runs; and the second tied Test in cricket's history was also played here, between India and Australia in 1986.

An England-based firm of architects has been commissioned by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to find a way to increase capacity, provide additional corporate boxes and air-conditioned accommodation, and roof shading in time for the World Cup. More interestingly, they have been asked to try and let the sea breeze in to get the ground's traditional swing back - all this while adhering to the principles of vaastu, and Indian form of feng shui, in design. The plan is to create a series of 12 stands atop a lower bowl of terracing, so the breeze can flow through the horizontal gap between the terrace and the stands.

Cricinfo (http://www.espncricinfo.com/travel/content/current/story/482178.html)

Best link to watch live streaming of the world cup..... http://www.espnstar.com/cwclive/ . Just though its the best link to watch the matches online.... So thought of sharing....:cheers:

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00479/17MP_MAC_STADIUM_479303f.jpg

Poor outfield.! No green cover.! No Artificial grass turf.!

Poor outfield -> ok.

Artificial grass turf ??

Poor outfield -> ok.

Artificial grass turf ??

I don't think artificial turf is used anywhere in cricket. It is used in Wimbledon though.

The stadium looks great from the inside but from the out side it does not look that impressive.

Poor outfield.! No green cover.! No Artificial grass turf.!

Poor outfield -> ok.

Artificial grass turf ??

Artificial grass turf mean pitch cover (green).! lol

http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=196578

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-iF9s2iuI/AAAAAAAAAbA/pNDZca2z5xc/s1600/ChepaukStadium.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-iGbEV-pI/AAAAAAAAAbI/utYIIj81ppc/s1152/Tnca%2303.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-iHX8y6dI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/iR5PnJBuNPM/s1152/Tnca%2305.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-lTTsgUjI/AAAAAAAAAbk/kya0e_QxsgA/s1152/Tnca%2307.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-lTs97u4I/AAAAAAAAAbo/xix1vi-Iw98/s1152/Tnca%2308.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-lULqMu5I/AAAAAAAAAbw/qtVMNzs2kMI/s1152/Tnca%2310.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_d4pwU_2Oi20/TV-lpQFSNhI/AAAAAAAAAb4/cE8OE1UI06M/s1152/Tnca%2311.JPG

CR: Peninsula Designs, picasa Feb 19th,2011

More: https://picasaweb.google.com/maxwell.proton/TNCACricketStadium#

I think we need a bigger ground than chepauk..nevertheless it lokks good except for the outfield..

I think we need a bigger ground than chepauk..nevertheless it lokks good except for the outfield..

The size of the ground might be a bit small..but the history and memories of the ground are not...i am happy they renovated the Chepauk ground rather than a new facility somewhere outside the city

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_8UVsn9TpVxY/TW14-6wQEpI/AAAAAAAAAGY/hJyOMXCm8NM/s912/Image0136.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_8UVsn9TpVxY/TW14sgUkKsI/AAAAAAAAAGE/iRkOSQ5__3o/s912/Image0131.jpg

CR: nash, picasa feb24th,2011

Outfield is disappointingly brown, esp in the second pic - I wouldn't want to be a fielder needing to dive on that surface..

Stadium looks good though - would look better with a capacity crowd. Guess we'll need to wait for the India-West Indies game for that!

:)

Outfield is disappointingly brown, esp in the second pic - I wouldn't want to be a fielder needing to dive on that surface..

:)

Most of Cricket Ground in INDIA .. They use TAPE Water not Green cover & grow grass. We never compare Aus, eng, nz outfield. We don't have research and Grass bank(Grass seed).

Foreign players wear elbow cover (without hurt while dive and jump fielding) when they play in INDIA.
We are done stadium.! now we need better outfield work & good quality turf for cricket.

Most of Cricket Ground in INDIA .. They use TAPE Water not Green cover & grow grass. We never compare Aus, eng, nz outfield. We don't have research and Grass bank(Grass seed).

Foreign players wear elbow cover (without hurt while dive and jump fielding) when they play in INDIA.
We are done stadium.! now we need better outfield work & good quality turf for cricket.

I feel that the variety of grass which grows lushly in Bangalore etc does not grow in Chennai. This is mainly due to the salt laden air , I suppose. The soil quality can be changed by digging and filling.

The Grass carpet which we buy for hotel or villa lawns is not suitable, since the players use spikes in their shoes. The turf gets easily damaged by the spikes and it the damaged surface is dangerous to the game & the players.

Probably, the horticulture dept should be consulted by TNCA for the grass planting.

mhsHTA6g9BQ

I feel that the variety of grass which grows lushly in Bangalore etc does not grow in Chennai. This is mainly due to the salt laden air , I suppose. The soil quality can be changed by digging and filling.

The Grass carpet which we buy for hotel or villa lawns is not suitable, since the players use spikes in their shoes. The turf gets easily damaged by the spikes and it the damaged surface is dangerous to the game & the players.

Probably, the horticulture dept should be consulted by TNCA for the grass planting.

http://www.kansascricket.org/page11.html

INDIA CAN IMPORT GRASS FROM AUS AND ENG

^^ In fact guys, the grass at Chepauk is imported from Australia. I have heard so from the groundsman when I used to play cricket for VB Chandrasekhar's academy. It is another thing that the outfield looks dry.

Did anyone watch the SA Vs Eng match yesterday? The stadium was fabulous. If Steyn and Morkel's bowling was anything to go by, the reconstruction has worked wonders, the stadium has got back its sea breeze and the pitch has well and truly got back its swing. Those two were virtually unplayable (although spinners got the wickets). I didnt watch the SA innings because of India match.

Chepauk was always known for its sporting wicket and it is now safe to say that Chepauk now has the most sporting wicket within a 3000 km radius. Regarding the grass, I dont find any fault with the current one. To be sure I checked the fielders and none except Steyn was wearing any protective bands (he always wear a elbow band and is not match specific) and were diving and sliding a lot while fielding. So there is nothing wrong with the grass from the functional point of view. Further it looked a lot greener on TV.

Once the Pavilion is reconstructed, the capacity will be 42000. Not ideal but its ok. I would have been happier with capacity in the 50-60K range.

The pitch deserves praise.compared to all go-flat tracks at Bangalore which give batsmen all priority to whack boundaries or the Colombo track that creates a struggling atmosphere for the batsmen,The Chennai wicket offers fair chance to both batsmen and bowlers.

Its important not to misread the pitch though the boundaries may be short and outfield quick.As a batsman you have to try to settle in and then slowly start improving your strike-rate after facing 10-20 balls.For a bowler,this is a dusty pitch which gives them greater bounce and swing to exploit.Even the spinners get some turn here.But bowl a wrong delivery,the ball disappears into the newly built stands.:lol:So the best thing is to stick to the straight line till you understand what you can expect from the pitch.

I could'nt go to the last game but went to the warm-up between India and Newzealand.The view from the D-stands(Upper) was beautiful but still i found there were some plastic chairs around even some of them in the AC Hosp. Boxes.

This need to be addressed immediately.The new stands are so classy that even Pune and Hyderabad are cosnidering to incorporate these techniques in their forthcoming stadia.This obviously seems to be one of the most cutest venues in the country.Wish they had retained the old capacity though.

Did anyone watch the SA Vs Eng match yesterday? The stadium was fabulous. If Steyn and Morkel's bowling was anything to go by, the reconstruction has worked wonders, the stadium has got back its sea breeze and the pitch has well and truly got back its swing. Those two were virtually unplayable (although spinners got the wickets). I didnt watch the SA innings because of India match.


Yes. Good to see more swing than ever with the flow of sea breeze. But there was hardly any pace or bounce on the wicket. Bell and Bopara had all the time to rock back and pull Steyn and Morkel to midwicket off deliveries that they would not have played a shot at Durban.

Swing, pace and bounce will make a real deal for fast bowlers. How abt branding Chennai as 'Perth of India' :D. In addition, Chennai being home of the MRF Pace foundation, this can add to the support the city gives to grooming good fast bowlers, a scarce commodity in India.

James Anderson's Swing deliveries were really gem...

Yes. Good to see more swing than ever with the flow of sea breeze. But there was hardly any pace or bounce on the wicket. Bell and Bopara had all the time to rock back and pull Steyn and Morkel to midwicket off deliveries that they would not have played a shot at Durban.

Swing, pace and bounce will make a real deal for fast bowlers. How abt branding Chennai as 'Perth of India' :D. In addition, Chennai being home of the MRF Pace foundation, this can add to the support the city gives to grooming good fast bowlers, a scarce commodity in India.

:lol: Perth is known for its consistent bounce and not uneven bounce. Its good to see the swing back but the pitch leaves a lot to be desired :ohno:

Chennai: “The pitch looks underprepared...I hope it gets better before our game,” Graeme Smith’s words, a week before the World Cup is sounding prophetic now.
Just that, it has come back to hurt South Africa badly. A defeat to struggling England chasing 172 was the last thing on the skipper’s mind and Smith blamed it on the Chepauk pitch almost inadvertently. “In this kind of a wicket, if you lose one or two wickets, you’re in trouble. It happened to England and it happened to us as well,” Smith said, talking about the lowscoring match, where only 333 runs scored for the loss of 20 wickets.
No doubt it made for rivetting cricket. But the fact remains that it is not the ideal One Day wicket and even the winning captain Andrew Strauss said that “historically we don’t play ODIs on such wickets”.
What’s making it all the more intriguing is the fact that there are still two more games to go on this track, where the ball is turning square right from the first over. Both the teams opened with leftarm spinners and Robin Peterson got both the English openers out.
South Africa hoped to get the runs, but skipper Smith was the first to go with one that really turned sharply. Smith didn’t want to go into the “underprepared” controversy yet again, but said: “It is fair to say that this was not a freeflowing wicket...Now that we have lost, we’re not complaining, but it was a difficult wicket to bat on.”
What probably perturbed him more was the “incosistent bounce”, which made Stuart Broad look all the more dangerous. “The pitch had a lot in it for the bowlers which includes inconsistent bounce,” he said, trying to keep clear of the controversy.
Strauss, though, was much forthright. “Generally we play One Day cricket on pitches where there are a lot of runs in the offing. If I am pushed, I would say that the pitch broke up a little too much. It was a good toss to win after all,” the England skipper conceded.
India are to play against West Indies here two weeks from now and it can get extremely tricky after the wear and tear of another game (England vs West Indies) in between. But the TNCA authorities feel that the pitch won’t turn so much in the India game. “You should not forget that India scored 350 runs against New Zealand in a practice match. Moreover, the India game will be a day-nighter and so the pitch won’t be exposed to the hot sun for very long. It’s unlikely that the pitch will turn as much as it did on that day,” a TNCA official’s argument didn’t sound foolproof.
But all said and done, a low-scoring game makes for an interesting watch and Strauss doesn’t mind it once in a while. “It was turning here...Sometimes it moves around a little too much in England. So it evens out at the end of the day,” Strauss said. It’s a matter of conjecture though he would have been as kind if his team had lost the game. TNN

^^ Yeah the pitch didn't seem under-prepared during the IND-NZ match. I don't think there will be much diabolism during the IND-WI match.

Yes. Good to see more swing than ever with the flow of sea breeze. But there was hardly any pace or bounce on the wicket. Bell and Bopara had all the time to rock back and pull Steyn and Morkel to midwicket off deliveries that they would not have played a shot at Durban.

Swing, pace and bounce will make a real deal for fast bowlers. How abt branding Chennai as 'Perth of India' :D. In addition, Chennai being home of the MRF Pace foundation, this can add to the support the city gives to grooming good fast bowlers, a scarce commodity in India.

It definitely does not qualify as Perth of India. As you rightly pointed out, players can comfortably play on the backfoot. The best thing about Chennai is that it assists spinners too (wickets were regularly taken by spinners). Thats why I think TShyam said it is a sporting wicket. This pitch offers a great battle between bat and ball. For pace and bounce alone, I think Mohali is the best ground in India.

btw I smell some burnt stomach here :lol::lol:

btw I smell some burnt stomach here :lol::lol:

I too smell it..hehe:lol:

^^ Burnt stomach ! :lol:

en namma oora naama nalla vidhathula sonna mattum ellarum varinju kattitu sandaikku vandhudaranga? poraamai :)

:hilarious
what thinking???


I'm happy that the stadium is renovated and its looking great. Congratulations for that. I'm also glad that it has brought back a little swing in the air which will benefit good seam bowlers. I credit where its due.
The pitch is not upto the mark for an ODI.

I'm not jealous and neither I'm here to fight.

Cheers :cheers:

The pitch is not upto the mark for an ODI.

Which player told you?

I couldnt find anything like that reported in the media on sunday's match.

So what is good pitch for you? Both team scoring 300+? :lol:

Which player told you?

I couldnt find anything like that reported in the media on sunday's match.

So what is good pitch for you? Both team scoring 300+? :lol:

+1...The article in Cricinfo where Micheal Jeh has gone after Ponting..

http://blogs.espncricinfo.com/diffstrokes/archives/2011/03/spinning_tracks_are_good_for_c.php

Chennai pitch has encouraged good fast bowlers as well..Did you see the unplayable deliveries that Andersen bowled to AB De villiers and Duminy...Stuart Broad finished the game not Swann..So it is all baloney...in the 1999 test between India and Pak, Prasad took 5 wickets in the second innings..

Guys I was at the match and to tell you honestly, it wasn't the best pitch to bat on. It was a tough pitch to bat actually, the ball was coming very slow and the top surface was crumbling. I could see puffs of dust from the D stand when batsmen played sweep or forceful shots. On the other hand the outfield wasn't bad at all. It looked green and dry but fielders didn't have a problem diving.

The biggest problem was it was hot and sunny and I didn't feel the breeze in my stand. Not sure if players felt any better, but I couldn't see flags flying. Another problem was that the stands aren't fully covered in shade and hence the lower tiers are always exposed to the sun making it extremely difficult for viewing. Lots of Eng/SA fans were sitting there bare bodied tanning their skins. I really pity the guys who will get sun baked in these stands. Temperatures dropped after 4 pm and felt much better with evening breeze coming in. Day night matches are the best option for Chennai.

But criticisms apart, the stadium looks wonderful, especially the view from the stump cam. I wish the entire stadium had yellow seats, man they look awesome in daylight. I have clicked pictures on my mobile and will post them today. 4 stars for our new MAC!

^^ ezhilan, the D stand has plastic chairs, and not bleachers. Am I correct ?

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/8471/avncheppauks496810f.jpg

source: The Hindu

I'm thoroughly disappointed by the way the entry gates remain the same cattle sheds they were. I hope they at least revamp that after the IPL.

^^ ezhilan, the D stand has plastic chairs, and not bleachers. Am I correct ?

Only the lower tier has plastic chairs. All the upper tiers have bleachers. Am posting the pics

What is bleachers? any pic?

The steel rods that support the roof
http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/4338/photo0201p.jpg

The Vintage Pavilion
http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/9961/photo0196d.jpg

The Pavilion stand will also be demolished and built to this height post IPL
http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/1136/photo0194n.jpg

The best looking stand in the stadium IMO
http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/1781/photo0195g.jpg

The lower tier is always exposed to the sun as I mentioned earlier
http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/6274/photo0199q.jpg

The D stand where I watched it from
http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/142/photo0198u.jpg

The smaller stands on the sea side
http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/7563/photo0197rp.jpg

A SA fan, wanted to click her alone, but namba ooru alunga enga vidranga. Vella thola paatha pothum :)
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/454/photo0200l.jpg

Another disappointing thing here was that I just could not find anything to eat. Apparently the food stall had nothing left even before the lunch time. I could only find Lays and Pepsi however hungry I was. Very poor planning from the ICC and hope this is not the case in every stadium.

<sigh> I'm going to be in the D-stand lower tier for the IND-WI match </sigh>

ezhilan, thanks for the pics, nice clarity for a mobile cam. Digital cameras are not allowed,
I presume ?

Digital cameras are not allowed,
I presume ?

Why digi cams are not allowed? May be they think that one can modify camera to a weapon?

Only in India we see such crazy rules... if u work in a manufacturing company in india, they will not allow mobiles with camera(many companies, even engineers are not spared).. many of my friends ended up using nokia 1100.. when are we gonna shed all these things.. only god knows :ohno:

<sigh> I'm going to be in the D-stand lower tier for the IND-WI match </sigh> No outside foods are allowed inside and you will not get food or water during Innings break. Be prepared. Buy enough water and food before the innings:) Looking forward nice photos.

Why digi cams are not allowed? May be they think that one can modify camera to a weapon?

Only in India we see such crazy rules... if u work in a manufacturing company in india, they will not allow mobiles with camera(many companies, even engineers are not spared).. many of my friends ended up using nokia 1100.. when are we gonna shed all these things.. only god knows :ohno:

Not only manufacturing company, Camera Mobiles are not allowed even in some software companies (some accounts!!).

<sigh> I'm going to be in the D-stand lower tier for the IND-WI match </sigh>

ezhilan, thanks for the pics, nice clarity for a mobile cam. Digital cameras are not allowed,
I presume ?

Thanks...yeah cams not allowed inside but I dont understand that logic when I can click using a mobile phone. I saw a foreigner using binoculars though. No outside food, water bottles, cigarette packs, pan parags etc etc. Walk empty handed and make sure you buy your lunch well in advance. And most importantly please wear a cap or a hat so that you don't get burnt in the afternoon.

Thanks for the pics....MAC looks dazzling n majestic.....When compared to other indian venues chennai has a little crowd for a non india match.....But personally i feel chennai pitch is good one for both batsmen n bowlers as well...Now am eagerly waiting for Ind_WI clash

http://i.imgur.com/XH8XI.jpg

source: wikipedia

deleted

^^ The last one isn't Chepauk, it's the Rose Bowl in Southampton. It has a similar roof.

oh...ok, someone posted it to wiki

Any Sea breaze coming after the modification? What was the logic in holding full day matches when Day/nighter will be good for both the players and the spectators? Summer started in India and when a stadium can host day nighter why not use it?

Why digi cams are not allowed? May be they think that one can modify camera to a weapon?

Only in India we see such crazy rules... if u work in a manufacturing company in india, they will not allow mobiles with camera(many companies, even engineers are not spared).. many of my friends ended up using nokia 1100.. when are we gonna shed all these things.. only god knows :ohno:

While designing IT Parks, we are always requested by the clients' tenants (IT Companies) to instal gadgets which will prevent misuse of modern technolgy for information theft. Some of them explained how some of their employees used mobile phones with cameras to copy codes and conveyed the same to competitors by SMS / MMS or Blue Tooth.

Seems like a genuine issue.

In Chepauk stadium, during one of the previous matches, we were prevented to carry our Indian Flag by the Police. The reason being safety as the flag has a stick. They threw the flag down on the floor and stood on it. When my friend tried to take a photo, his mobile phone was confiscated. After much arguments, the battery in the phone was removed and not returned after the match.

Probably, they can instal scanners near the entrances similar to airports so that we are not harassed.

Food & Water business is run by a Mafia like arrangement. We are treated like Cattle. In one of the matches, only water bottles of one company (manufactured by the Sponsor) was allowed and others were confiscated. Even food for kids were not allowed. How can one survive on Chips & Cola ?

TNCA should seriously think of a smooth process to manage the demand and supply.

Both TNCA and ICC are to be blamed for this. I didnt get anything to eat except chips and Pepsi. There was supposedly a stall which sold variety rice but all over even before lunch. Just imagine the poor plight of the foreign nationals more than us Indians. Is this the best hospitality we can provide to outsiders? No point having glossy stadiums if the service is very poor. Hope they improve the conditions for the next 2 matches.

http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/5088/02mpmemories1jpg120367f.jpg

Chepauk (1962)
http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/3861/mp21lead1jpg147946f.jpg

source: Hindu

^^ The last one isn't Chepauk, it's the Rose Bowl in Southampton. It has a similar roof.
Is Southampton employed tn police?

^^Indian sun is talking about a different picture.

http://i54.tinypic.com/987ibb.jpg

^^ That's funny! I thought they had put a tea stall there. :lol:

I can see the Nair in the corner

http://www.sify.com/news/mirpur-better-than-eden-gardens-but-chennai-is-excellent-say-scribes-news-international-ldtmOefegjg.html

One is an age-old cricketing venue having staged a Test match way back in 1934 besides the World Cup final 24 years back. The other is a child in comparison, and hosted its first international match only in December 2006. But the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata seems to have lost out to the spanking new Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) here in terms of facilities -- going by the assessment of journalists.

Of the eight Indian venues, the one which has been earning the maximum accolades from foreign mediapersons is the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, at Chepauk, in Chennai.

The SBNCS, nestled at Mirpur in suburban Dhaka, was originally a football venue in the 1980s. Named after one of the renowned leaders of Bangladesh as also pre-independence India - A.K. Fazlul Haque - the stadium was formally taken over by the Bangladesh Cricket Board in 2004 and two years later it held its maiden ODI between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

Aesthetically built, the 25,000-seat stadium gives a coliseum like feeling, and has one of the finest drainage systems. 'As the outfield is sand based, and the water goes straight down, we can quickly resume play even if there are heavy showers,' said Shafiqur Rahman Munna, BCB ground and pitches committee chairman.

Another noteworthy feature is the media block, which gives the impression of a spaceship suspended in air.

South African journalist Telford Vice, who has been following the South African team for a publication Business Day, said he was impressed with the 'great view' from the media box.

Vice, however, found the media box at the Eden Gardens cramped. 'You cannot move around freely. In comparison there is more space here,' said Vice, earlier associated with Reuters and BBC.

He said while Mirpur made things easier for journos, fighting the pressure of various deadlines and tremendous workload, by installing a lift covering the entire media block, in Eden Gardens reaching the media box meant a stiff climb of five floors. 'I am not complaining about that, but then if there are modern arrangements, things do become smooth.'

Another South African journalist, not wishing to be named, said: 'Before coming to Bangladesh, I had doubts in my mind about the facilities. But after coming here, I am pleasantly shocked. Everything is so neat and clean, there are smiling volunteers all round to attend to your little problems.'

'In contrast, at Eden Gardens, we could see from the media box itself the dirt in one of the stands diagonally opposite us. But here, you can daily see how much care they are taking to clear all rubbish and keep things clean,' he said.

'I feel sorry to say, but I think after all the controversies and loss of a big match, they should have done more to make things better at the Eden,' he said.

However, Vice was all praise for Chennai.

'I really liked the facilities in Chennai. It was excellent. Nagpur was also very good.

'The media box in Chennai is so large and spacious. It is a herculean effort for any ground to match it,' said another South African journalist.

Mohali, however, did not catch Vice's fancy. 'The window at the media box is too small and it is difficult to have a full view,' he said.

But it is the SBNCS, Mirpur, which has bowled them over. 'The facilities here are comparable to the best in any part of the world,' Vice signed off.

http://expressbuzz.com/cities/chennai/chennai-the-best!/257715.html

THE World Cup has turned the world’s attention to India. Fans from different parts of the world had come to Chennai and most were impressed with how well everything was organised.

‘Well-managed’, ‘efficient’ and ‘organised’ were the key words used by many fans.

Manpriat Gill, 34, from England, has been travelling across India since the beginning of the year. England Vs West Indies was the second match she has been able to attend during the tournament. “I went to the match between England and Ireland in Bangalore and the crowd didn’t support England at all. They were very negative.

But the Chennai crowd has been more civilised. The atmosphere here is more positive because it is nice to see Indians supporting both teams,” she said. “It’s nice that you can have a drink at your seat and they let you have your sun tan lotion as well! I also think it’s great that there are so many women and families here.” Another England fan was the 50-year-old aerospace employee, Chris Allen. He was all-praise for India but felt it was a shame that some matches had not sold out. “I’ve been watching England at matches all over the world — Australia, South Africa and the West Indies, but I enjoy coming to India.

I like the country and the people are very friendly. The only sad thing is to see so many empty seats.” Among the Indians attending the match, Arun Perumam, 22, an engineering student from Chennai, point outs the importance of the World Cup in India. “In this country, cricket is more than just a game. It’s a religion, a massive part of our culture,” he said.

“I’m lucky and grateful that I got a chance to see the world cup played here. When you see the players on TV, it’s like you are watching movie stars, but to see them up close, they look like our neighbours.” West Indies fan Eric Holder, 36, felt that the hospitality of the host nation had been very impressive. “I’m pleased to see such great support from among the home crowd,” he said. “I like seeing so many people show their passion for my team.

It’s very nice. People here have been very friendly and the match has been great to watch.” The overwhelming majority of fans had positive things to say about the match and the tournament in general. Cricket may just be a sport after all, but unifying effect it has on fans of all countries is profound.

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/1383/mcc.jpg

source: cricinfo

<sigh> I'm going to be in the D-stand lower tier for the IND-WI match </sigh>

ezhilan, thanks for the pics, nice clarity for a mobile cam. Digital cameras are not allowed,
I presume ?

@ Indian Sun: Where are our pics? :D Good game you got to watch live yesterday!! :)

^^ here you go.

The atmosphere was electric. Chepauk is now arguably one of the best cricket stadia in India.

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/4672/image0225.jpg

http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/941/image0236s.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/2365/image0242a.jpg

http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9017/image0244l.jpg

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/3673/image0247.jpg

http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/421/63713004.jpg

Hey! does the new canopy actually cover the crowd from the sun??

^^ It doesn't cover the lower bowls. The heat was scorching during the day. It's going to be difficult during day games.

Umm.. thats pretty stupid from the designers part knowing chennai is a pretty hot city throughout the year!

^^ It doesn't cover the lower bowls. The heat was scorching during the day. It's going to be difficult during day games.

take a brolly hat next time

^^ I was wearing a cap. Not enough. Had a bad sunburn in the areas exposed to the sun (arms, face etc)

Amazing pics Mr.Indian Sun

wow! nice pics indian sun! .....were you able to take anything else inside, other than the camera?

Any body going to IPL inaguration?

Where is it?

Where is it?

Chepaukam Stadium

XbyDn75US8c

For those who cant see, try this link - http://www.espncricinfo.com/icc_cricket_worldcup2011/content/site/worldcup2011/rbtc/index.html

wow! nice pics indian sun! .....were you able to take anything else inside, other than the camera?

@bono: no cameras were allowed, these were taken from my mobile. Nothing else was allowed, except binoculars.

Awesome pics - thanks!! :)

http://i55.tinypic.com/2wee3i0.jpg

Any body going to IPL inaguration?

I am planning to go for finals. Any idea if they have started selling tickets for IPL4 matches.

I am planning to go for finals. Any idea if they have started selling tickets for IPL4 matches.

not yet.

http://www.chennaisuperkings.com/tickets/MatchTicketList.aspx

^Thanks. Looking at the website message, I need to keep an eye on booking tickets.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5143/5548817173_1c1c2d338d_z.jpg
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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5549400490_a649fc81cd_z.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/madrasphotographer/sets/72157626198361369/

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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5549410936_e4648ff9c1_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/59877286@N07/

awesome pics! ..looks wonderfully airy!

http://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/article1562476.ece

Tickets for the opening match of the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League, to be played between defending champion Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders here on April 8, will go on sale at the MAC Stadium, Chepauk, on March 24. Tickets can also be purchased at www.chennaisuperkings.com.

Tickets have been priced at Rs. 500 (A, B, C lower tier), Rs. 1,200 (G, H, I lower tier), Rs. 2,000 (A, B, C Upper tier), Rs. 2,500 (G, H, I upper tier), Rs. 3,000 (D lower tier and F lower tier), Rs. 4,000 (D, E, F upper tier), Rs. 5,000 (T3), Rs. 8,000 (Pavilion terrace) and Rs. 15,000 (Anna Pavilion).

Air-conditioned hospitality seats in the middle tiers of A, B, C, G, H and I will be sold at Rs.15,000 and hospitality seats for D, E and F will cost Rs. 25,000 per seat.

Tickets will be sold from 9-30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5549400490_a649fc81cd_z.jpg
9/[/url]

ah sea facing!

View from the D-lower stand:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5517775298_a4ebfa6a6c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/superstarksa/5517775298/)
MAC Stadium, Chepauk (Chennai) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/superstarksa/5517775298/) by superstarksa (http://www.flickr.com/people/superstarksa/), on Flickr

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/3798/5563782294a66b84f8d1b.jpg

source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kraghav/5563782294/sizes/l/in/photostream/

^^ Mind-boggling.. Thanks for this great find bono! I appreciate that..

^^ It would be awesome after they convert all the stands like that. Are they gonna do that after this IPL?

http://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/article1562476.ece

Tickets for the opening match of the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League, to be played between defending champion Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders here on April 8, will go on sale at the MAC Stadium, Chepauk, on March 24. Tickets can also be purchased at www.chennaisuperkings.com.

Tickets have been priced at Rs. 500 (A, B, C lower tier), Rs. 1,200 (G, H, I lower tier), Rs. 2,000 (A, B, C Upper tier), Rs. 2,500 (G, H, I upper tier), Rs. 3,000 (D lower tier and F lower tier), Rs. 4,000 (D, E, F upper tier), Rs. 5,000 (T3), Rs. 8,000 (Pavilion terrace) and Rs. 15,000 (Anna Pavilion).

Air-conditioned hospitality seats in the middle tiers of A, B, C, G, H and I will be sold at Rs.15,000 and hospitality seats for D, E and F will cost Rs. 25,000 per seat.

Tickets will be sold from 9-30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Looks like they have increased the prices of the tickets. Last year A,B,C Upper tiers were 1500 and now it's 2000. It's quite an increase considering the fact that you cannot even take water bottle inside. How about parking facilities? Have they been improved?

^^ A,B,C upper tiers are 1500 for the remaining matches. The prices mentioned are for the Opening match vs KKR on April 8th.

It would be awesome after they convert all the stands like that. Are they gonna do that after this IPL?

Yes, the current pavilion will be demolished and 3 new stands would come up in its place.