Motera Stadium awaits for India, England ahead of historic Test in Ahmedabad

Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium aka Motera stadium is set to host its first international Test between India and England scheduled for 24th February. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

The BCCI has allowed spectators in the stands for the third Test between India and England from February 24 to 28. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

At Motera, having a capacity of 1,10,000, a batsman will have to first climb down 80-odd steps from the dressing room. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

Adding to the anticipation among locals is the possible presence of President Ram Nath Kovind on the first day of the Test. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

The refurbished venue’s first international game will also decide who faces New Zealand in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

Rebuilt at a cost of roughly Rs 800 crore, the complex has two practice grounds with nine pitches, and another 11 on the central square. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

The ground, which was earlier named the Sardar Patel Stadium, and more popularly known as the Motera stadium, has been renamed after the Prime Minister, who was also formerly a president of the Gujarat Cricket Association. The stadium also has 55 rooms in the clubhouse which also has a 3D mini theatre, an Olympic-size swimming pool, gymnasium, steam and sauna, and squash court. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

The Narendra Modi Stadium will host the third and fourth Tests between India and England as well as the entirety of the five-match T20I series between the two sides. The floodlight towers of the old stadium have been replaced by the in-vogue LED lights that circle the stands and are shadow-free. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)

The stadium will be a part of the planned Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in the city. The innovative drainage system at the stadium ensures that the action can start within 30 minutes of rain relenting. It has a parking provision for 3,000 cars and 10,000 two-wheelers. (Expresss Photo by Nirmal Harindran)