Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is located in Dharamshala city in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Operated under the auspices of Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA), the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium often serves as the practice ground for the Indian Cricket Team, Himachal Pradesh state-level cricket team, as well as Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kings XI Punjab. This stadium has hosted 1 Test, 4 ODIs and 8 T20Is to date.
Location of Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, out of all Indian stadiums, is situated amidst the Dhauladhar mountain range in Kangra valley. Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayan mountain range, it is one of the highest sports grounds in the world. The average temperature that prevails during peak hours of summers has been recorded as 25 degree to 30 degrees Celsius as maximum and 20 degrees Celsius as minimum. While the entire India suffers from terrible heat waves this place experience soothing weather.
Capacity of Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium has a maximum spectator capacity of 23,000 and provides modern-day amenities for hosting national and international level cricket matches like split practise sessions, new rehabilitation centre, lounge, bar, restaurant, banquet hall which can house 500 people. The pleasant weather adds to the popularity and glory of the game and helps to attract more spectators to the ground.
Major Matches in Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium was built and established in 2003. Since then it has been home to several Ranji Trophy matches and Indian Premier League matches. Apart from being a home practice ground for the Indian Cricket team, the stadium also served as a home stadium for Himachal Pradesh Cricket team and the Kings XI Punjab team.
The first international team who played in this ground was the Pakistani cricket team, when they played a warm-up match against an India A side in 2005. However, due to snowfall and extreme weather conditions, the stadium was considered fit for only One Day International (ODI). In 2013, the first ODI at this stadium was played between India and England on 27 January 2013. England won the match by 7 wickets. The first Test at this stadium was played between India and Australia from 25–29 March 2017.
Visiting Information of Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is open for tourists even when no matches are scheduled to experience the beauty of the stadium with its picturesque backdrop. The closest airport to the HPCA Stadium is Gaggal Airport at Kangra, which is about 15 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to reach the stadium.
