Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai: The Historic Home of the Cricket Club of India
A history of Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, the Cricket Club of India’s art deco ground that hosted Test cricket, including Sehwag’s 293 in 2009.
Overview
Brabourne Stadium is located in south Mumbai and is the home of the Cricket Club of India, which was established in 1933. The ground opened in 1937 and was named after Lord Brabourne, then the Governor of Bombay. Together with the clubhouse and its art deco design, it is one of the most atmospheric heritage grounds in the country.
In its early decades it was Mumbai’s main Test ground, before the Wankhede Stadium opened in 1975. The move followed a dispute between the Mumbai association and the Cricket Club of India over ticket allocations.
Pitch and conditions
Brabourne’s pitches have usually been good for batting, especially in the first innings, with a short boundary on one side. The sea-side weather and evening dew can affect the later part of white-ball games, and monsoon rain can interrupt play.
Memorable matches
The ground hosted Test cricket from the late 1940s onward. In December 2009 India played Sri Lanka here and made 726 for 9 declared, with Virender Sehwag scoring 293 in an innings victory.
More recently Brabourne has been used for Indian Premier League matches and domestic cricket, as well as women’s cricket fixtures.
Heritage
Its stands, club facilities and long pavilion remain rich in history, and the stadium continues to occupy a special place in the story of cricket in Mumbai.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Brabourne Stadium?
It is the home of the Cricket Club of India, which manages the ground.
Why was Wankhede built if Brabourne already existed?
A disagreement between the local association and the club over ticketing led to the construction of the Wankhede Stadium, which opened in 1975.
What was a famous Test innings here?
Virender Sehwag’s 293 against Sri Lanka in December 2009.