Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, Mohali: History and Famous Matches
Explore the PCA Stadium in Mohali, venue of the 2011 World Cup semi-final between India and Pakistan and a long-time home of Punjab cricket.
Overview
The Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, often called simply Mohali, sits on the edge of the planned city of Chandigarh. It opened in 1993 and was later renamed in honour of the long-serving administrator I. S. Bindra, so it is also widely known as the IS Bindra Stadium.
The ground quickly became one of north India’s major international venues, taking over many of the fixtures once played in the region’s older grounds.
Pitch and conditions
Mohali has long been associated with pace and bounce, and its pitches have often given fast bowlers something in the early overs. Later in a Test the surface can wear and begin to help spin. The cool evenings in winter and the dew that can arrive in night matches influence tactical decisions in limited-overs cricket.
Memorable matches
The venue staged a semi-final of the 1996 World Cup, in which Australia met West Indies. Its most famous occasion came on 30 March 2011, when India beat Pakistan in the World Cup semi-final here, a match attended by the prime ministers of both countries.
Mohali also hosted Test cricket from the mid-1990s, and it has hosted many one-day and Twenty20 internationals since.
Domestic and franchise cricket
The stadium has been the main home of Punjab teams in domestic cricket and was a long-time home venue for the Punjab franchise in the Indian Premier League. Franchise arrangements change over time, so readers should check current fixtures for the venue.
For many supporters in the region it remains the most recognisable cricket ground in the Punjab area.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the stadium also called IS Bindra Stadium?
It was named after I. S. Bindra, a prominent Indian cricket administrator who was closely linked to the ground’s creation.
What is Mohali’s most famous match?
The 2011 World Cup semi-final in which India defeated Pakistan on 30 March 2011.
What kind of pitch does Mohali have?
It has traditionally offered pace and bounce, with some assistance for spin as a Test match goes on.