The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is one of the most prominent cricket stadiums in India. Located in Uppal, Hyderabad, it has become a significant venue for both international matches and Indian Premier League (IPL) games. With a seating capacity of around 39,000 and modern infrastructure, it stands as a symbol of the growing cricket culture in the state of Telangana. But behind the dazzling floodlights and the roar of the crowds, an important question often arises: Who owns the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium?

Understanding the ownership, management, and history of this stadium gives us a deeper appreciation of its role in Indian cricket. Cricket Stadium

The Primary Owner: Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)
The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) is the official owner and operator of the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. HCA is the recognized governing body for cricket in Hyderabad and its surrounding regions and is affiliated with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

As the owner, HCA is responsible for managing the stadium’s infrastructure, organizing domestic and international cricket matches, hosting IPL games, and maintaining the venue according to international standards. All logistical arrangements, including ticketing, security, and pitch maintenance, fall under the purview of the Hyderabad Cricket Association.

Land Ownership and Government Role
While the Hyderabad Cricket Association owns and operates the stadium, it is essential to understand that the land on which the stadium is built was provided by the Government of Andhra Pradesh before the formation of Telangana in 2014. The government allocated approximately 16 acres of land in Uppal for the development of a world-class cricket stadium to promote sports and tourism in the region.

The land was not sold to the HCA but was granted under a long-term lease, meaning that while the HCA has the right to develop and use the property, the actual land ownership remains with the state government. After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, the stadium now falls under the jurisdiction of the Government of Telangana.

Construction and Financial Support
The stadium’s construction began in the early 2000s and was completed in 2004. Financially, the project was supported by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The BCCI contributed substantial funds to assist the HCA in building a stadium that could meet international standards.

From seating arrangements to player facilities, media rooms to VIP boxes, the stadium was designed with global requirements in mind. The successful collaboration between HCA, the state government, and the BCCI resulted in one of India’s most respected cricketing venues.

Home Ground of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is the official home ground of the IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). However, it’s important to clarify that the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise does not own the stadium.

The team uses the venue for its home matches during the IPL season under an agreement with the Hyderabad Cricket Association. SRH pays the HCA to use the stadium for games, practice sessions, and promotional events. The team may temporarily brand the stadium with sponsor logos and team colors during IPL matches, but this does not affect the legal ownership of the venue.

A Tribute to Rajiv Gandhi
The stadium is named after Rajiv Gandhi, the sixth Prime Minister of India. The name was chosen as a tribute to his leadership and vision. Though he was not directly connected to cricket, naming such an important public sports venue after him was seen as a gesture of respect and recognition for his contributions to the country.

Events and Milestones
Since its opening, the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium has hosted several memorable matches, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. Some of the top cricketing moments in Indian history have taken place here, with appearances from legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli.

It also hosted the opening match and key games in many IPL seasons, becoming a fan-favorite venue known for its enthusiastic crowds and balanced pitch conditions.

Summary of Ownership Structure
To make things clear, here is a summary of the ownership and management of the stadium:

Owned by: Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)

Land provided by: Government of Andhra Pradesh (now under Government of Telangana)

Affiliated with: Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

Managed by: HCA

Home team: Sunrisers Hyderabad (IPL franchise)

Named after: Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India

Conclusion
The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is not just a structure of concrete and grass—it represents the dreams of millions of cricket fans in Hyderabad and across India. Owned by the Hyderabad Cricket Association, built on land leased from the government, and supported by the BCCI, it is the result of collaboration between cricket authorities and public institutions.

Its reputation as a premier cricket venue continues to grow, and it plays a key role in developing talent, hosting major tournaments, and keeping the spirit of cricket alive in South India.