MA Chidambaram Stadium, popularly known as Chepauk, is undergoing massive renovation ahead of the hectic Chennai Super Kings Match schedule in 2026. Despite the start of the domestic season being weeks away, the ground is going to get a new outfield and drainage system.
This Chepauk revamp started after the ground was slated to host the bulk of international action next year. According to a report by CricTracker, the ground is likely to host games in the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026. Hence, the home venue of the Chennai Super Kings is all set for a makeover.
Chepauk renovation plan
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association released a video showing that everything around the field, except the middle part, is being dug up. Apparently, they are putting in a brand new drainage system and a new field. The improved drainage should get games going sooner after it rains.
These changes to the field and drainage should make for better cricket at one of India’s oldest stadiums. It has been a witness to many historic matches, which include both IPL and international games; however, as it is going for a complete revamp, it hopes to add many more chapters to the glorious history of IPL and Indian cricket.
The Chepauk revamp will be a time taking process, and with India’s domestic season just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how things take place from here on.
History of Chepauk
Chepauk, officially the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, has been the heartbeat of Chennai cricket since 1916. As India’s second-oldest international ground, it has witnessed history unfold for over a century. In 1934, Chepauk hosted its first Test match, and in the same year, India’s first Ranji Trophy game was played here. It later became the stage for India’s first-ever Test victory in 1952, a moment that cemented its place in cricketing folklore.
Over the decades, Chepauk has seen unforgettable contests—from the dramatic tied Test against Australia in 1986 to high-voltage IPL finals that electrified fans. Renamed in 1986 after M. A. Chidambaram, a visionary administrator, the ground has retained its charm through eras of cricketing change.
What makes Chepauk truly iconic isn’t just the matches, but its atmosphere. The roar of the Chennai crowd, the weight of its history, and its emotional connection with fans make it a fortress of Indian cricket.
A fortress for the Lions
Chepauk is also the home ground of Chennai Super Kings, who have won the IPL 5 times. 2025 was not a good season for them, in fact, it was their worst as they finished last with just 4 wins out of 14 matches.
Generally, the ground is considered a fortress, but not last season. Chennai was only able to win 1 out of their seven home games, which was one of the biggest reasons behind their poor outing as well.
Even Tamil Nadu, which uses the ground as its home venue, didn’t play a single game here last season. Coimbatore acted as their home ground for the last season, and most likely it will remain to be the case for this season as well.
