Lalit Modi has renewed his criticism of cricket infrastructure in India, calling for a complete overhaul of existing stadiums and a shift towards modern, fan-focused venues.
Lalit Modi calls for overhaul of India’s stadium infrastructure
Responding to a user on social media, Modi said the country should prioritise building world-class stadiums in major cities rather than expanding the number of venues. He pointed to Delhi and Bengaluru as examples of metro cities lacking modern facilities.
He argued that most stadiums in India fall well short of global standards in terms of fan experience, safety and amenities. Modi added that even the newer venues offer only a fraction of what is seen in leading football World Cup stadiums.
Push for fan-first approach
Modi said a study conducted by global design firm HKS in 2010 had already flagged Indian stadiums as unfit to host matches. He claimed the findings were presented to the Board of Control for Cricket in India but little progress followed.
He also suggested that a significant share of cricket revenues, particularly from media rights, should be directed towards rebuilding infrastructure with better seating, climate control, improved sanitation and emergency services.
The remarks come shortly after Modi criticised Sanjiv Goenka, owner of Lucknow Super Giants, over his on-field conduct involving Rishabh Pant, adding to his recent public interventions on the state of the game.
Netizens have mixed reactions, but a majority appear ready for debate.
Here is the tweet – https://x.com/LalitKModi/status/2040424548860825722?s=20