Barabati Stadium Cuttack is one of India’s oldest and most iconic cricket venues, known for its roaring crowds, lively pitch, and rich cricketing heritage. From unforgettable Test battles to nail-biting ODIs, this stadium has seen cricketing legends rise, records shatter, and fans lose their voices (gladly).
In this blog, we dive deep into its history, major stats, unforgettable matches, and the upcoming match details — all while keeping Barabati Stadium Cuttack at the centre.
What Makes Barabati Stadium Cuttack Special?
Located in the heart of Cuttack, Odisha, the Barabati Stadium is surrounded by historic landmarks and the two famous end names — Mahanadi River End and Pavilion End.
With floodlights fully installed and a lush grass pitch, it continues to be a favourite venue for both ODI and T20 internationals.
Key Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| End Names | Mahanadi River End, Pavilion End |
| Floodlights | Yes |
| Home Teams | India, Orissa |
| Pitch Type | Grass |
| Current Local Time | 00:21, Tue Dec 09, 2025 |
A Glorious Cricketing Journey
The Barabati Stadium Cuttack first made headlines when it hosted only the third ODI ever played in India, back in January 1982. India clinched a memorable win over England by five wickets, taking the series 2-1.
Historic Test Matches
Only two Test matches have ever been played here, but both came with their own drama:
- India vs Sri Lanka (Jan 4–7, 1987)
The wicket was underprepared, producing unpredictable bounce. Yet, Dilip Vengsarkar delivered his highest Test score — a brilliant 166. Sri Lanka couldn’t cross 60 runs with any batter, leading to an innings and 67-run victory for India.
Kapil Dev also celebrated his 300th Test wicket here. - India vs New Zealand (Nov 8–12, 1995)
Rain spoiled the fun, allowing less than 180 overs of action. Still, Narendra Hirwani shone with exceptional figures of 6/59, the best bowling performance at this venue.
ODI Magic at Barabati Stadium Cuttack
ODI cricket has always been a hit here:
- First ODI: England vs India – Jan 27, 1982
- Last ODI: England vs India – Feb 9, 2025
India has dominated at this ground, winning 5 out of 7 matches played here. The stadium has also hosted two ODIs without Indian participation.
Despite its iconic status, visiting teams used to grumble about the long commute from Bhubaneswar — an hour’s drive — because of limited accommodation in Cuttack and the absence of a local airport. (Tough life for tourists, easy runs for Team India!)
T20I Action at Barabati Stadium Cuttack
- First T20I: India vs South Africa – Oct 5, 2015
- Last T20I: India vs South Africa – June 12, 2022
The stadium has seen packed crowds, loud chants, and some nerve-wracking finishes during T20Is.
H2: Women’s International Matches
Barabati Stadium has also played host to memorable women’s cricket moments.
Women’s Test (WTest)
- Only WTest: NZ Women vs IND Women – March 7–11, 1985
Women’s ODIs (WODIs)
- First WODI: AUS Women vs PAK Women – Feb 1, 2013
- Last WODI: SL Women vs SA Women – Feb 15, 2013
Youth ODI (YODI) Records
- Only YODI: England U19 vs India U19 – Feb 25, 1993
Barabati Stadium Cuttack Records Summary
Tests
- Highest individual score: Dilip Vengsarkar – 166
- Best bowling: Narendra Hirwani – 6/59
- Total Tests Hosted: 2
ODIs
- India’s performance: 5 wins out of 7
- ODI hosting span: 1982 to 2025
T20Is, WTests, WODIs, YODIs
- Hosted multiple formats across decades
- Known for unpredictable yet exciting pitch behaviour
Upcoming Match at Barabati Stadium Cuttack
The stadium is gearing up to host its next big clash. Cuttack’s cricket fans are already polishing their voices to scream, shout, and maybe even cry (happy tears only).
Final Thoughts
The Barabati Stadium Cuttack is not just a sports venue — it’s a living museum of Indian cricket history. From Kapil Dev’s milestone wicket to Vengsarkar’s masterclass innings and spectacular ODI victories, this ground has given fans moments they cherish even decades later.
As it prepares for its upcoming match, excitement is building again. One thing is certain: whenever cricket comes to Cuttack, entertainment comes free.
Leave a Reply