Sharjah Cricket Stadium - Capacity, Pitch, History and Records

Sharjah Cricket Stadium [Source: @ICC/x.com]

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium stands as an iconic venue in the cricket world as it has set the stage for some of the most remarkable moments in the sport’s history. Holding the prestigious record for hosting the highest number of international matches (299 as of September 2024), the stadium’s legacy remains unparalleled.

From Sachin Tendulkar's legendary 143-run knock against Australia to hosting world-class tournaments, Sharjah has etched its name in cricket history. The venue is also hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium History

Constructed in the early 1980s, the Sharjah Cricket Stadium quickly established itself as a central hub for international cricket. Its debut on the world stage came in April 1984, during the Asia Cup. With each passing year, the stadium has undergone significant improvements, embracing modern amenities while retaining its old-world charm.

Sharjah stadium [Source: @cricbuzz/X.Com]

One of the stadium’s most unforgettable moments occurred in 1998 when Indian cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar single-handedly carried India to victory against Australia with a breathtaking innings of 143 runs. This "Desert Storm" innings is still recounted as one of the greatest knocks in cricket history.

The stadium has also hosted several Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in 2014, 2020 & 2021. It has also been a home to a number of Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Capacity

From humble beginnings, the Sharjah Cricket Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 17,000 spectators. Over the years, this venue has transformed from having limited seats and modest facilities to becoming a state-of-the-art cricket stadium.

It was the first in the GCC to install LED lighting systems, utilizing DMX Technology to enhance the visual spectacle during night matches, replacing 392 metal halide floodlights with 176 LED ones to conserve energy.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium pitch is known for producing runs in abundance, especially in shorter formats like T20 and ODIs. Batsmen can unleash their full potential on this surface as the boundaries are small, which makes it an attractive venue for power-hitters.

Is Sharjah Cricket Stadium a Batting or a Bowling Pitch?

Sharjah has built a reputation as a batting paradise, with boundaries measuring around 58 to 65 meters, making it relatively easier for batsmen to clear the ropes. Records show a strong dominance of teams batting first, with 23 out of 38 T20Is won by teams that posted a total and then defended it.

However, as much as it seems like a haven for batsmen, bowlers, especially spinners, can thrive here too, taking advantage of the pitch’s slightly slow nature.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Weather Report

Sharjah generally enjoys hot and dry weather conditions, with temperatures often reaching extreme levels during the summer months. 

However, during the cricketing season, the weather tends to be more moderate, with warm evenings providing ideal conditions for matches under floodlights. 

The stadium’s advanced lighting system ensures games continue without hindrance in twilight or evening conditions.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Records and Stats

Sharjah Cricket Stadium T20Is Records

Sharjah Cricket Stadium ODI Records

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Test Records

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Address

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium address is Second Industrial St - Industrial Area 5 - Industrial Area - Sharjah - United Arab Emirates. It is easily accessible from major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The stadium serves as one of the most important cricketing venues in the Gulf region and remains a go-to ground for many high-profile cricketing events.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium: FAQs

Q.1. What kind of pitch is Sharjah?

Answer: Sharjah Cricket Stadium is widely known as a batting-friendly venue. The pitch generally favours batsmen, offering good bounce and pace for stroke play. However, spinners can also make an impact, especially in the middle overs, as the pitch tends to slow down a bit over time.

Q.2. Which country is Sharjah Cricket Stadium in?

Answer: Sharjah Cricket Stadium is located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Q.3. Why is Sharjah Stadium famous?

Answer: Sharjah cricket stadium is famous for hosting the most number of international matches (294). First constructed in early 1980s, the stadium hosted its first international matches in April 1984 during the Asia Cup.

Q.4. Why did India stop playing in Sharjah?

Answer: The emergence of the match-fixing scandals began to emerge in the late 1990s, forcing the Indian team to move away from the stadium, even though nothing was confirmed.

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