How were stadiums selected in UAE and South Africa?


IPL 2023 Winner

The selection of stadiums in both the UAE and South Africa for hosting the IPL was based on a mix of logistics, infrastructure, security, and crowd potential. Here’s how it played out in each country:

🇿🇦 South Africa – IPL 2009 Stadium Selection

When the IPL was suddenly shifted to South Africa due to India’s general elections, the BCCI and CSA (Cricket South Africa) worked fast to choose venues that ticked these boxes:

✅ Selection Criteria:

  1. ICC-standard facilities: Only stadiums with top-tier pitches, outfields, and media infrastructure were considered.

  2. Weather stability in April-May: South Africa’s early winter was ideal, with low rain probability.

  3. Crowd accessibility: Urban centers with passionate fan bases and strong expat populations were prioritized.

  4. Security & accommodation: Cities with secure hotels, airports, and strong policing were essential.

🏟️ Chosen Venues:

  • Newlands, Cape Town

  • Kingsmead, Durban

  • SuperSport Park, Centurion

  • Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

  • St George’s Park, Port Elizabeth

  • Buffalo Park, East London

Cape Town and Durban hosted many high-profile games due to their coastal beauty and tourist appeal, while Johannesburg hosted the final.

🇦🇪 UAE – IPL 2014 (part) & 2020 (full) Stadium Selection

In the UAE, the BCCI had more control and planning time, especially in 2020, allowing for strategic choices. Only three main stadiums were used both times.

✅ Selection Criteria:

  1. ICC-approved venues with excellent broadcast tech.

  2. Proximity to teams: All three cities are within a few hours' drive—minimizing travel during tight schedules and bio-bubble protocols.

  3. Fan population & expat interest (especially in 2014).

  4. Bubble management in 2020: Hotels and stadiums were “zoned” efficiently.

🏟️ Chosen Venues:

  • Dubai International Cricket Stadium

  • Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

  • Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Sharjah is the smallest and most nostalgic (dating back to 1980s India-Pak clashes), while Dubai and Abu Dhabi offered modern infrastructure and multiple practice wickets.

🎯 Summary Table:

Country Key Cities Chosen Main Factors
South Africa Cape Town, Durban, Joburg Weather, infrastructure, crowds
UAE Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah Bio-bubble, proximity, tech support

Want a quick comparison of how these venues influenced match outcomes (like which one saw the most sixes or lowest scores)?