ICC trophy T20 World Cup 2024. (Source – Getty Images)
It is widely acknowledged that every tournament is pursued by participating teams with the singular ambition of reaching the pinnacle: the highly-coveted final, where the ultimate prize awaits. None is more prestigious than the T20 World Cup/ The global 20-over event is characterized by its captivating spectacle and dynamic gameplay. Throughout its nine editions, there have been memorable matches staged at renowned venues, attracting fervent and vocal crowds who passionately embrace the exhilarating cricketing action on display, regardless of the presence of the home nation.
With that being said, let’s go through the venues that have hosted the final across all nine editions of the T20 World Cup thus far.
1. 2007: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Dubbed the “Bullring” for its formidable ambiance that unsettles visiting teams, the Wanderers boasts a storied and illustrious history. Situated at a significant altitude, this iconic stadium hosted the inaugural final of the 20-over World Cup, a riveting contest between arch-rivals, India and Pakistan, which ended with the MS Dhoni-led side clinching victory by a mere five runs in a last-over thriller.
2. 2009: Lord’s, London
The final of the second edition of the marquee event was played at the Lord’s, The Home of Cricket, a historic venue that also houses the world’s most ancient sporting museum. It was yet another all-Asia final, with Pakistan finally redeeming themselves by coming up on top with a run-chase where they didn’t falter like the way they did against India in 2007.
Check Here: T20 World Cup Winners List from 2007 to 20223. 2010 ICC World Twenty20: Kensington Oval
Situated on the easternmost island in the Caribbean, this venue is steeped in historical significance. It hosted the inaugural England touring side in 1895, the first combined West Indies team against MCC in 1910-11, and witnessed West Indies’ inaugural Test match in 1930. The epic final featured one of cricket’s most storied rivalries, akin to the Indo-Pak contest, resulting in The Three Lions overcoming the Aussies with a comfortable seven-wicket victory, achieving the target with three overs to spare.
4. 2012: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
The 35,000-capacity concrete bowl, the largest stadium in the nation, which also holds the distinction of hosting the world record for the highest Test total: Sri Lanka’s 952 for 6 declared against India in 1997-98 was the venue that the final between hosts, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies took place. Despite limiting the West Indies to a modest 137/6, the Lankans themselves collapsed for just 101, suffering a humiliating defeat on home soil.
5. 2014: Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka
Situated approximately 10 km from the heart of Dhaka, this venue is celebrated for possessing the most superior drainage system in the subcontinent. It was here that Sri Lanka achieved redemption and triumphed after previous disappointments, notably against India, who had inflicted a significant heartbreak in the 2011 Cricket World Cup final. In another closely contested, low-scoring encounter, Sri Lanka emerged victorious by six wickets.
Also Read: T20 World Cup Record – List of T20 World Cup Records & Stats
6. 2016: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Alongside the MCG, Eden Gardens stands as cricket’s equivalent to the Coliseum. It was at this picturesque venue that the West Indies successfully defended their title, securing their second consecutive trophy. The final is famously remembered for Marlon Samuels’ stellar innings and for Ben Stokes being struck for four consecutive sixes by Carlos Brathwaite, etching a memorable victory for the West Indies.
7. 2021: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
The “Ring of Fire”, lit by 350 floodlights fixed around the perimeter of its round roof, hosted the 20-over tournament after a hiatus of five years, as Australia secured their inaugural 20-over title. They clinched victory over New Zealand by an eight-wicket margin. Current skipper Mitchell Marsh’s 77* (50) playing a pivotal role in Aussie’s maiden triumph.
Also Check: T20 World Cup leading wicket-takers list from 2007 to 2024
8. 2022: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne
Australia’s most prestigious sporting arena hosted the final of the latest 20-over spectacle, featuring England and Pakistan vying for ultimate glory. The game at the ‘G’ witnessed the Englishmen prevailing in a tense run-chase, accentuated by pivotal batting moments. Sam Curran’s impressive figures of 3/12 earned him the Player of the Match accolade, and also the Player of the Tournament title for his tally of 13 wickets.