Not Greenfield Stadium: DY Patil Stadium to Replace Chinnaswamy in Women’s World Cup
Not Greenfield Stadium but DY Patil Stadium will host Women’s World Cup matches in 2025, as the famous Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru could not get clearance to stage games. This is a big development for the upcoming tournament, which is scheduled between September 30 and November 2, 2025.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had initially planned to use Chinnaswamy Stadium for some key matches. However, the venue lost its chance after police authorities denied permission due to safety concerns. The issue arose from the tragic stampede on June 4, 2025, when 11 people lost their lives during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL trophy celebration.
Why Not Greenfield Stadium?
Many fans speculated that Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram might take the slot. But instead, ICC finalized DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The focus keyword Not Greenfield Stadium has become important in this context, as the cricket body opted for a venue that has already proved its ability to host women’s cricket successfully. Not Greenfield Stadium
The Greenfield Stadium is a modern facility, but logistical challenges and scheduling conflicts made it less favorable. Navi Mumbai, on the other hand, has emerged as a strong center for women’s cricket, thanks to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and recent international fixtures. Not Greenfield Stadium
DY Patil Stadium’s Role in Women’s World Cup
The DY Patil Stadium will now host up to five matches in the Women’s World Cup 2025. These include:
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Three league games
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One semifinal
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The final (most likely)
This means Navi Mumbai could be the city where the Women’s World Cup trophy is lifted on November 2, 2025.
Interestingly, this will be the first time DY Patil Stadium hosts a Women’s ODI match. The last women’s international game played here was a T20I between India Women and Australia Women in December 2022.
ICC President Jay Shah on the Change
ICC president Jay Shah said this change shows how Navi Mumbai has grown into a true home for women’s cricket. He praised the energy and support from fans during WPL and international matches. According to him, the Not Greenfield Stadium decision was not about excluding Thiruvananthapuram but about giving players and fans a stadium with strong infrastructure and proven support. Not Greenfield Stadium
He also mentioned that this tournament could become a turning point in the journey of women’s cricket. With India co-hosting the World Cup alongside Sri Lanka, the event is expected to draw record crowds and global attention. Not Greenfield Stadium
Women’s World Cup 2025 Schedule and Knockouts
The schedule remains unchanged despite the venue shift:
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Tournament Dates: September 30 – November 2, 2025
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Other Venues: ACA Stadium (Guwahati), Holkar Stadium (Indore), ACA-VDCA Stadium (Visakhapatnam), R Premadasa Stadium (Colombo)
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Semifinals:
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October 29: Guwahati or Colombo
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October 30: Navi Mumbai
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Final: November 2 in either Colombo or Navi Mumbai
There are also special rules if Pakistan qualifies:
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If Pakistan plays a semifinal, it will be in Colombo.
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If India vs Pakistan semifinal happens, it will also be in Colombo.
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If Pakistan makes the final, Colombo will be the host.
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If Pakistan does not qualify, all knockouts can be played in India.
Why the Decision Matters
The Not Greenfield Stadium decision is more than just a venue change. It reflects:
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Safety Priorities – After the Bengaluru tragedy, authorities are extra cautious about crowd management.
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Women’s Cricket Growth – Navi Mumbai has already shown strong fan support in WPL.
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Logistics and Infrastructure – DY Patil is better connected for international broadcast and travel compared to Greenfield.
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Symbolic Value – Hosting the Women’s World Cup final at DY Patil can boost women’s cricket in India.
Fans’ Reaction
Cricket fans had mixed feelings. Some were disappointed that Bengaluru lost the chance, while others welcomed Navi Mumbai’s inclusion. Many fans from Kerala were also hoping for Greenfield Stadium to get the matches, but they now understand that ICC prioritized safety and readiness. Not Greenfield Stadium
Social media has already started trending with phrases like Not Greenfield Stadium, as supporters debate whether ICC made the right choice. Not Greenfield Stadium
The Not Greenfield Stadium decision marks a turning point in the planning of Women’s World Cup 2025. DY Patil Stadium’s inclusion shows how much Navi Mumbai has grown in the cricketing map, especially for women’s cricket. With fans excited, players motivated, and ICC determined to make this tournament historic, the world can expect one of the most memorable World Cups in women’s cricket history.
