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London Olympic Stadium may become a venue for ICC World Cup 2019

The London Stadium has the capacity of 60,000 spectators, which is the twice more than any other cricket ground in the United Kingdom.

London Olympic Stadium © Getty Images
London Olympic Stadium © Getty Images

The Olympic Stadium of London may get the chance to host matches in the next 50-over World Cup that will be played in 2019. The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently conducted an inspection of the ground and found that the pitch dimensions are in accordance with the requirement of One-Day International (ODI) matches. As reported by ESPNCricinfo, the final decision over the use stadium is expected to come in next few months but it is said that it has high chances of hosting matches. The move to host a cricket match at this stadium is strongly supported by ICC to use it during the mega-event of World Cup 2019. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: India vs England, 1st T20I at Kanpur

The London Stadium has the capacity of 60,000 spectators, which is the twice more than any other cricket ground in the United Kingdom. There are high possibilities of two or three matches to be played at this ground in 2019, and the capacity certainly supports the cause. Since it is a World Cup tournament, which is played in every four years, there are high expectations from the large crowd and this stadium looks apt for it, similar to multi-sports grounds like Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Eden Park, which attracted huge amount of crowd during the World Cup 2015. The venue also has the high chances of hosting the opening ceremony of the tournament.

The last time England hosted a 50-over World Cup was in 1999. The proceedings began with damp firework display as it drizzled at Lord’s. And with the opening ceremony at London Stadium, followed by hosting of matches might ensure the 2019 tournament emerges as more successful. The promotions to spread the awareness of this new venue among the fans are being done across the country.

There are high chances of drop-in pitches to be used in this ground — pitch which is prepared away from ground, as the ground is usually used for football matches by English Club West Ham United. The 2019 World Cup event is scheduled outside the football season. The London Stadium is also being considered for T20 games. Essex is expected to play matches here in 2018.

However, there may be some resistance because at the end of 2014, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced allocation of matches for the mega event. 11 venues are expected to host 48 matches of the tournament.

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