Journeys & Jerseys

Delhi’s famous cricket ground has seen more than cricket matches; it has seen changes over time legendary players rise to fame and history being made. The change from the Feroz Shah Kotla Ground to the modern Arun Jaitley Stadium is not just a name change but shows how cricket in Delhi has changed over the years.

The story starts in 1883, when the stadium was built near the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort. For years it was called the Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, a place with a lot of tradition. Unlike new stadiums Kotla had a special charm with closely packed stands, excited crowds and a pitch that often surprised batsmen. It quickly became one of India’s important cricket venues.

Over the years Kotla became a stronghold for cricket. It was famous for its low pitches, which often helped spin bowlers. Legendary performances were common here like Anil Kumble’s 10-wicket haul against Pakistan in 1999. Moments like these made Kotla famous as a ground where amazing things could happen.

As cricket grew in India with the rise of shorter formats and leagues like the Indian Premier League, the need for modern facilities became clear. While Kotla had a lot of history it also needed upgrades to match standards. Renovations improved seating dressing rooms and media facilities. The ground still had its old character: loud, intense and full of life.

In 2019 the stadium got a name. Arun Jaitley Stadium. To honor the former finance minister and long-time president of the Delhi & District Cricket Association. This name change sparked reactions. For fans “Kotla” was more than a name; it was a memory of watching cricket with family and friends. Yet the new name marked a chapter recognizing contributions to cricket administration while looking to the future.

Today Arun Jaitley Stadium is a mix of old and new. It still hosts matches and is the home ground for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The energy in the stadium is still Delhi with loud cheers, strong support and a crowd that loves every moment of the game.

What makes this ground special is its ability to connect generations. Older fans still call it Kotla remembering Test matches and historic spells while younger fans associate it with high-scoring T20 games and IPL excitement. The structure may have changed the name may have changed,. The heart of the stadium remains the same.

From pitches and historic spells to floodlit matches and modern rivalries the journey from Kotla to Arun Jaitley Stadium shows the transformation of Indian cricket. It reminds us that while names and facilities may change, the passion for the game, in Delhi stays the same.