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If cricket runs in your veins, Mumbai is your pilgrimage. The city that gave us legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, and the ever-energetic Jemimah Rodrigues breathes cricket in every corner. Just last evening, India stunned seven-time champions Australia in the Women’s World Cup semi-final at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, and Rodrigues played a crucial role in that victory. It’s fascinating to remember that before she picked up a cricket bat, Jemimah was equally good at basketball and football, representing her school in both. She made her Mumbai Under-19 debut in the 2012-13 season, and since then, there’s been no looking back. Whether you catch a match on one of the city’s open maidans or at its grand, floodlit stadiums, cricket and its stories echo through every gully of Jemimah’s hometown. Here's a cricket-lover's guide to Mumbai's many maidans and stadiums: Shivaji Park GymkhanaEvery cricket legend from Mumbai, including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, started here. Located in Dadar, the Shivaji Park is your guide to the sport's history under the watchful eyes of Shivaji Maharaj's statue. Go early in the morning and you’ll see kids in crisp whites chasing dreams under the tutelage of their coaches. The park is also surrounded by cricket coaching centers if you'd like to learn more about the coaching industry. Wankhede StadiumNo cricket lover’s trip is complete without visiting Wankhede, where India lifted the 2011 World Cup. It is located near the coast and has stands named after legendary Mumbai cricketers such as Vijay Merchant, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. If you’re lucky, you might catch a Ranji Trophy or IPL match. The energy you see here during each match is what make this one of the most iconic stadiums in the world. Azad MaidanQuite like Shivaji Park, Azad Maidan (formerly called Bombay Gymkhana Maidan) has been the cradle of cricket dreams for decades. This expansive ground is also the venue for many local tournaments (as well as protests and rallies) and is located in South Mumbai, making it an worthwhile stop on your city tour. Brabourne StadiumLocated in Churchgate, Brabourne is another jewel in Mumbai's cricketing heritage. The ground, which is named after Lord Brabourne who was the Governor of Bombay, is one of the oldest cricket stadiums in India. It also has a cricket museum, inside the Cricket Club of India, that is a must-visit for every enthusiast. DY Patil StadiumFor those looking to experience modern cricket in Mumbai, the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is a must-visit. It is a state-of-the-art facility where both national and international sporting events like IPL are held, in addition to concerts too since it is a multifunctional venue. Bandra: Jemimah’s BackyardJemimah grew up in Bandra, and it’s easy to see why she loves it. This suburb is lively and full of character, with seafront promenades, street art, and cosy cafés. Head to Carter Road or Bandstand to enjoy the sunset, a favourite unwinding spot for many Mumbai cricketers. Go On A Cricket Heritage WalkCricket Heritage Tours in Mumbai offer fans a chance to walk through the very heart of India’s cricketing legacy. These tours take you beyond the stadiums and into the soul of the sport, from historic maidans like Shivaji Park and Azad Maidan, where young talents like Sachin Tendulkar and Jemimah Rodrigues once trained, to the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where India lifted the 2011 World Cup. Along the way, guides share stories of Mumbai’s cricketing greats, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav, and the city’s unmatched record of 41 Ranji Trophy titles. You’ll also visit landmarks like the Bombay Gymkhana, the site of India’s first international match. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
