Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium (HPCA Stadium) is a picturesque cricket stadium located in the city of Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is the home ground of the Himachal Pradesh cricket team and has also hosted several international matches, including ODIs, T20Is, and Test matches.
- Spectacular backdrop: Dhauladhar mountains provide a stunning setting for the stadium.
- High altitude: Among the world’s highest cricket stadiums, situated at 1,457 meters (4,780 feet).
- Established in 2003: Built in this year, marking a significant addition to India’s cricket infrastructure.
- Capacity of 23,000: Accommodating a large audience.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Equipped with modern amenities, including a well-maintained outfield, drainage system, and floodlights.
The pitch at the HPCA Stadium is generally batting-friendly, but it can also be challenging for bowlers at times, especially in the early stages of the innings. The stadium is also known for its strong winds, which can make it difficult for batsmen and bowlers alike.
Source URL: https://www.facebook.com/HimachalPradeshCricketAssociation/
HPCA Stadium History
- Establishment in 2003: The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium was constructed in the year 2003, marking a significant addition to India’s cricket infrastructure.
- First International Match in 2013: In 2013, the HPCA Stadium made its debut as an international cricket venue by hosting a One Day International (ODI) match between India and England. This event was a milestone in the stadium’s history.
- Versatility in Hosting International Matches: Over the years, the HPCA Stadium has not limited itself to ODIs but has also welcomed various other formats of international cricket, including T20Is and Test matches. Its versatility as a cricket venue has been appreciated by players and fans alike.
- 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup: A momentous occasion awaits the HPCA Stadium in 2023 as it is slated to host five matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup. These matches will include group-stage encounters and, most notably, one of the semi-finals. It will be the stadium’s maiden experience in hosting a World Cup match, marking a significant achievement in its cricket history.
Memorable Matches at the HPCA Stadium
Here are some of the notable matches that have been played at the HPCA Stadium over the years:
- India vs England, ODI, 2013
- India vs Australia, T20I, 2016
- India vs South Africa, Test match, 2019
- India vs New Zealand, ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final
Facilities at the HPCA Stadium
The HPCA Stadium is a state-of-the-art stadium with all the modern facilities.
- A well-maintained outfield
- A drainage system
- A floodlight system
- A media center
- A press box
- A VIP lounge
- Food and beverage stalls
- Souvenir shops
How to Get to the HPCA Stadium
The HPCA Stadium is located in the city of Dharamshala, which is well connected to other major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
By Road: Dharamshala is situated along National Highway 20, linking Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, and Leh. You can easily access the city via regular bus services from Delhi, Chandigarh, and major Himachal Pradesh cities.
By Rail: Dharamshala boasts a railway station approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. Trains from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other prominent Indian cities offer a railway option for reaching Dharamshala.
By Air: Dharamshala Airport, located around 15 kilometers from the city center, facilitates air travel with regular flights connecting Delhi and Chandigarh to Dharamshala.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium Pitch Report
Key Features of HPCA Stadium Pitch:
- Pitch Type: Black soil pitch, known for its unique characteristics.
- Bounce: Offers good bounce, favoring both fast bowlers and spinners.
- Altitude: Located at an altitude of 1317 meters above sea level, influencing ball movement.
Tips for Batsmen and Bowlers at HPCA Stadium:
Pitch Report for Batsmen:
- Exercise Patience: Wait for opportunities with a selective approach.
- Footwork: Utilize footwork to position yourself effectively.
- Shot Selection: Avoid overly aggressive shots, especially early in your innings.
Pitch Report for Bowlers:
- Discipline and Accuracy: Maintain precision and line-and-length consistency.
- Exploit Bounce: Make the most of the pitch’s bounce for added effectiveness.
- Patience: Recognize that wickets may not come easily; stay persistent and calculated.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium Weather
- Temperate Climate: Dharamsala experiences warm summers and cool winters.
- October Average: The average temperature in October is 19°C (66°F) with low humidity and minimal rainfall.
- Ideal Cricket Weather: Sunny, clear days with a gentle breeze; cooler evenings suggest carrying a jacket or sweater.
- Pitch and Air Quality: Dry pitch and clear air provide excellent playing conditions for cricket in October.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium ODI Records
- Highest team score: 330/6 by India vs West Indies on October 17, 2014
- Lowest team score: 112 by India vs Sri Lanka on December 10, 2017
- Highest individual score: 127 by Virat Kohli (India) vs West Indies on October 17, 2014
- Best bowling figures: 4/13 by R A S Lakmal (Sri Lanka) vs India on December 10, 2017
- Most runs in a series: 212 by Virat Kohli (India) in 2 ODIs vs West Indies in 2014
- Most wickets in a series: 5 by R A S Lakmal (Sri Lanka) in 2 ODIs vs India in 2017
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium Batting Or Bowling Pitch ?
- Balanced Pitch
- Good Bounce
- Spin-Friendly
- Varied Conditions
- Strategic Adaptation.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium ( HPCA) Boundary Length
- Boundary Length: The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala features a boundary length of 70 meters across the field, which is the standard distance for most parts of the ground.
- One Shorter Boundary: Notably, there is one square boundary that is shorter than the rest of the ground, providing an interesting variation in boundary distances.
- Relatively Large Ground: With its 70-meter boundaries, the HPCA Stadium is considered a relatively large cricket ground, offering longer boundaries compared to many other stadiums in India.
Conclusion
The HPCA Stadium is a beautiful cricket stadium located in the picturesque setting of Dharamshala. It is a state-of-the-art stadium with all the modern facilities. The stadium has hosted several international matches over the years and is set to host five matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
If you are a cricket fan, then the HPCA Stadium is a must-visit destination. The stadium offers a unique cricketing experience, with its stunning location and challenging conditions.