The historic MA Chidambaram Stadium, commonly known as the Chepauk Stadium, in Chennai is being renovated ahead of its heavy cricketing schedule. In a few weeks, the 2025/26 domestic season begins. While India and Sri Lanka host the 2026 T20 World Cup, the ground will stage a few games.
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association uploaded a video showing the ground’s perimeter dug up except for the centre. Several reports say the outfield is being replaced and a world-class drainage system will be installed to speed up rain-soaked games.
With every effort and every sound, Chepauk prepares for its next chapter. 🏟️🏏#TNCA #TamilNaduCricket #ChepaukStadium #TNcricket pic.twitter.com/htD1hjaJlm
— TNCA (@TNCACricket) August 19, 2025
Drainage and outfield improvements are underway, promising great cricket at one of the country’s oldest venues. Except for international cricket, the venue should host a lot of cricket. It is unknown if the arena will be ready for the Ranji Trophy season, which begins October 15.
Heritage of Chepauk
Chepauk has historically helped spinners in spin-conducive dry and dusty weather, especially during Test matches. The second-oldest venue in the nation. Chidambaram opened in 1916.
The second T20I of the five-match series between India and England was played here recently. On reflection, it was the closest of the five 20-over matches. Tilak Varma’s undefeated 72-run knock off 55 deliveries and two catches gave the Men in Blue a two-wicket win with four deliveries left.
It is home to five-time IPL champion Chennai Super Kings, who had a disappointing 2025. For the first time in IPL history, they finished worst with four wins in 14 games. Once CSK’s citadel, Chepauk was anything but. The Yellow Men won one of six matches there.
Tamil Nadu, which lost to Vidarbha in the 2024-25 Ranji quarterfinals, played all its home games in Coimbatore.
India
