Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, located in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, is one of the country’s most prominent cricket venues. Established in 1992, it is owned by the Pakistan Cricket Board and has hosted a variety of domestic and international matches, including World Cup fixtures. The stadium was renovated in 2018 to enhance facilities for international games.
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch:
Features
- Boundary Dimensions: The straight boundary is approximately 75 meters, while the square boundaries measure 70 and 72 meters, respectively. The fine leg and third-man boundaries are about 74 meters.
- Seating Capacity: The stadium can accommodate around 15,000 spectators.
- Notable Records: It has hosted iconic performances, including Usman Qadir’s remarkable 4/13 in a T20I and Mark Chapman’s unbeaten century in 2023.
- Historical Significance: Shoaib Akhtar, the legendary fast bowler, began his cricket journey here.
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium: A Detailed Overview
- Established: 1992
- Location: Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
- Seating Capacity: 15,000
- Owner/Operator: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is a key cricketing venue in Pakistan, known for hosting several iconic matches and tournaments, including World Cups and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). It was one of the host venues for the 1996 Cricket World Cup and has played a significant role in revitalizing cricket in Pakistan after international cricket returned to the country.
Pitch and Boundary Dimensions
Pitch:
Typically considered balanced, offering assistance to both pacers and spinners. Early movement for fast bowlers is common, while batsmen can settle for high scores under favorable conditions.
Boundary Lengths:
- Straight boundaries: ~75 meters
- Square boundaries: ~70–72 meters
- Fine leg/third-man: ~74 meters
These dimensions ensure competitive gameplay, with a balance between bat and ball, evident in high-scoring matches as well as thrilling low totals
Notable Records and Matches
Historical Matches:
- Hosted several matches during the 1996 ICC World Cup.
- Played a key role in the 2023 cricketing calendar, hosting ODI and T20I fixtures against New Zealand.
Memorable Performances:
- Mark Chapman scored a stunning unbeaten 104 in a T20I against Pakistan in 2023, marking the highest individual score at the venue.
- Usman Qadir registered the best T20I bowling figures at the stadium, taking 4/13 against Zimbabwe in 2020.
- PSL Venue: The ground frequently hosts matches for the PSL, attracting significant fanfare and showcasing thrilling cricketing action.
Facilities and Renovation
The stadium underwent renovations in 2018 to modernize its infrastructure, including improved floodlighting, dressing rooms, and seating arrangements, enhancing its ability to host international games. It also features advanced training facilities for players.
Significance
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has grown into a premier cricketing destination in Pakistan. It holds historical and cultural importance and continues to attract international and domestic events, contributing to the country’s cricketing heritage. Its role in the return of international cricket to Pakistan has made it a symbol of resilience and progress.
