In a move that has delighted cricket fans across the country, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been confirmed as a marquee venue for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. The announcement comes as a pleasant surprise, as the stadium was not part of the initial shortlist of host venues for the prestigious tournament, scheduled from September 30 to November 2, 2025.
When the tentative list of venues for the Women’s World Cup was circulated earlier this year, the absence of Bengaluru’s iconic cricketing fortress raised eyebrows and sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Known for its electric atmosphere and passionate crowds, the Chinnaswamy has long been a favourite for players and spectators, but its omission left many wondering if the city would miss out on this historic event.
Now, with the ICC’s confirmation, Bengaluru is not only back in the fray but will play a central role, hosting the tournament opener featuring India on September 30 and one of the all-important semi-finals. The possibility of the stadium also staging the grand final on November 2 adds another layer of excitement for local fans.
The inclusion of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is more than just a logistical decision; it’s a recognition of the venue’s rich legacy and its contribution to Indian cricket. The stadium is renowned for pioneering eco-friendly initiatives, including solar panels and water recycling, making it a model for sustainable sports infrastructure.
Over the years, it has witnessed the rise of legends and hosted countless memorable matches across all formats. With its centrally located stands and raucous crowds, the Chinnaswamy offers an unparalleled match-day experience, something the Women’s World Cup will now benefit from.
In the last 10 years, the Indian Women’s team have a solid win percentage of 75% in the ODI format at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, in Bengaluru. A couple of losses came against New Zealand in July 2015 in the format at this venue. The highest score for India at this venue is 325/3 against South Africa on 19th June 2024 in the 2nd ODI, which was successfully defended.
The Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has the most number of runs at this venue with 490 runs at a strike rate of 82.35 and an average of 44.54 in 11 innings, which includes a couple of centuries and a couple of half-centuries to her name in the format so far.
As far as the bowling department is concerned, from a group of active players, Deepti Sharma has the most number of wickets for India at this venue, 11 at an average of 21 and an exceptional economy of 3.87 in seven innings including a maiden with the ball for her side in the ODI format.
For the Indian women’s team, starting their World Cup campaign at home, in front of a sea of blue at one of the country’s most beloved venues, is a dream scenario. The energy and support from the Bengaluru crowd could provide the perfect springboard for a strong campaign.
The stadium’s inclusion also signals the growing stature of women’s cricket in India. By awarding key fixtures to such an iconic ground, the ICC and the BCCI are sending a clear message: women’s cricket deserves the biggest stages and the brightest lights.
As the city gears up to welcome the world’s best, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium stands ready to etch new chapters in the history of women’s cricket, proving once again that when it comes to hosting the game’s biggest moments, Bengaluru never disappoints.
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