Vadodara, April 16: In a significant step towards building Mumbai’s most ambitious sporting landmark, a high-powered team of architects from SSA Architects — currently designing a state-of-the-art 1-lakh capacity cricket stadium for the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) — visited the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) Stadium on Thursday. The visit was aimed at drawing key insights from one of India’s most modern cricket venues.
The BCA, under the dynamic leadership of President Pranav Amin, rolled out the red carpet for the distinguished MCA delegation. The four-member SSA Architects team — Principal Amit Chaubal, Associate Principal Kaustubh Shevade, Senior Project Manager Bijal Parikh, and Senior Project Manager Sayali Gaikwad — spent the day studying the stadium’s cutting-edge infrastructure, design philosophy, and operational excellence.
Welcomed by a senior BCA delegation led by CEO Snehal Parikh, the visitors included Ajit Patel (Ex-Treasurer & Stadium Committee Member), Mukesh Patel (Stadium Committee Member), Atul Bedade (Stadium Cricketing In-Charge & Chief Curator), and Gopal Pankhaniya (Consultant, S3D), along with other officials.
The day began with an introductory session by CEO Snehal Parikh, followed by a detailed presentation on the stadium’s planning, infrastructure, and management strategies. The team was then taken on an extensive guided tour, where they examined everything from pitch maintenance and spatial planning to power backup systems, spectator flow, and technical detailing.
The SSA architects were visibly impressed by what they saw. Back in the conference room for a feedback session, they shared glowing observations and took away several actionable learnings for the upcoming Mumbai mega-project.
What the Architects Said:
Principal Amit Chaubal remarked, “We had heard great things about this stadium, especially the presidential, VIP and corporate boxes, ground equipment infrastructure, media facilities, viewing angles and ground preparation. The lighting, DG-based power backup, emergency evacuation and stakeholder-specific arrangements for broadcasters and players are truly commendable. Many of these facilities can be directly adapted for future projects. BCA Stadium has set a strong benchmark.”
Associate Principal Kaustubh Shevade highlighted the spectator experience: “The 360-degree viewing from almost every seat is remarkable. The multiple access and exit pointbjs, efficient use of every corner space, and the team’s deep understanding of cricket-specific requirements are outstanding.”
Senior Project Manager Bijal Parikh praised the sustainable and minimalist approach: “The planning is extremely well thought out with a minimal material palette. The integration of natural light and ventilation is seamless — not an afterthought but embedded in the design. From an infrastructure and master-planning perspective, it meets international standards. Involving a cricketer as a consultant during the design process is a key takeaway.”
Senior Project Manager Sayali Gaikwad noted, “The functional understanding of space planning is excellent. The use of exposed concrete and circular planning creates strong connectivity between indoor and outdoor areas. The ventilated façade enhances both airflow and aesthetics. For a first-time stadium visit, I am blown away — the capacity feels ideal with clear visibility and a satisfying experience for every spectator.”
The visit ended on a highly positive and collaborative note, with both sides acknowledging the value of such knowledge-sharing in elevating India’s sports infrastructure.
BCA’s commitment to precision planning, operational efficiency and fan-centric design has once again been validated as a model for large-scale venues. The insights gathered here are expected to play a crucial role in shaping MCA’s ambitious 1-lakh seater stadium in Mumbai — a project that promises to redefine cricket viewing experience in the country’s financial capital.
