Kensington Oval

Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados (Twitter)

The Kensington Oval, prominently situated in the western part of Bridgetown, Barbados, is the island's premier cricketing venue.

Spanning a rich history of over 120 years, the stadium has been the stage for numerous unforgettable cricket encounters involving local, regional, and international teams.

As a key venue, it has hosted the final of the 2007 World Cup among other crucial matches and is now set to host nine T20 World Cup 2024 matches, including the highly anticipated final.

Kensington Oval History

Established in 1882 with the Pickwick Cricket Club taking ownership, Kensington Oval has evolved from a simple playing field into a historic cricketing landmark.

The first international contest at the Oval took place in 1895 against Slade Lucas' visiting side. By January 1930, it hosted its inaugural Test match, where West Indies and England played to a draw.

The stadium was completely demolished and reconstructed in 2005-2006, preparing it for the 2007 World Cup and ensuring it met international standards.

Kensington Oval Capacity

Today, the Kensington Oval boasts a seating capacity of 28,000, a significant increase from its initial capacity of 12,500. This expansion was part of a comprehensive $135 million redevelopment effort concluded just in time for the 2007 World Cup.

The enhanced capacity not only accommodates a larger number of spectators but also improves the overall viewing experience with modern amenities and increased comfort, making it a favoured destination for both local supporters and international tourists.

Kensington Oval Pitch Report

The pitch at Kensington Oval is renowned for being fast and bouncy, catering extensively to batsmen, particularly in the first innings of matches.

While the pitch offers significant advantages to pacers who can utilise the bounce and early swing, it also becomes conducive to spin bowling as the match progresses and the pitch wears.

In the 24 T20I games played here, teams batting first have won 16 as compared to chasing sides who have emerged victorious on seven occasions with one game ending without a result.

Is Kensington Oval a Batting or a Bowling Pitch?

Predominantly, the Kensington Oval is considered a batting pitch. The conditions generally allow batters to play expansive strokes freely, especially in the earlier parts of the game, making it crucial for teams to post competitive totals when batting first.

Kensington Oval Weather Report

Barbados experiences a tropical climate that brings warm temperatures throughout the year, impacting play conditions at the Kensington Oval. The weather can be quite variable, with the possibility of sudden rain showers that can disrupt play.

Despite this, the stadium's advanced drainage system is designed to handle significant rainfall efficiently, minimizing delay times and maintaining the quality of play.

Kensington Oval T20I Records

Kensington Oval Address

The Kensington Oval is strategically located at President Kennedy Drive, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados, with the postal code BB120004. This central location is easily accessible, nestled in the heart of Bridgetown and enhanced by its proximity to various transport links.

The address and its prime location ensure that the Oval remains a central hub for cricketing events, attracting fans from all over the world to witness cricket at one of the Caribbean's most iconic venues.

Kensington Oval Major Matches

Kensington Oval T20I Matches

Kensington Oval: FAQs

Q.1. What is the seating capacity of the Kensington Oval?

Answer: The Kensington Oval can accommodate up to 28,000 spectators. This capacity was achieved as part of a major redevelopment prior to the 2007 World Cup, upgrading from the original capacity of 12,500.

Q.2. When was the first international match held at the Kensington Oval?

Answer: The first international cricket match at the Kensington Oval took place in 1895, when Slade Lucas' team visited the Island. The first Test match was hosted in January 1930, featuring a game between West Indies and England.

Q.3. What type of pitch does the Kensington Oval have?

Answer: The pitch at the Kensington Oval is known for being fast and bouncy. It generally favours batters. However, pacers can exploit the bounce and early swing, while spinners find more assistance as the game progresses.

Q.4. Has the Kensington Oval ever hosted a Cricket World Cup final?

Answer: Yes, the Kensington Oval hosted the 2007 World Cup final between Australia and Sri Lanka and the 2014 T20 World Cup final between Australia and England.

Q.5. Where is the Kensington Oval located?

Answer: The Kensington Oval is located at President Kennedy Drive, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados, with the postal code BB120004.

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