City: Mysore
Country: India
Capacity: 15000
Tucked away in the culturally rich city of Mysore, the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground has a story to tell that few cricket grounds in India can match. Established in the 1990s, this ground pays homage to the legacy of Mysore’s royal lineage—it’s named after Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadiyar, the last scion of the Wadiyar dynasty, who also happened to be an avid cricket enthusiast.
While the venue might not boast the sprawling capacity of India’s bigger stadiums, it comfortably accommodates around 15,000 spectators, ensuring that matches are an intimate affair, with fans close enough to catch every crack of willow on leather. Over time, the ground has seen modest renovations to its pitch and stands, each effort aimed at keeping it in line with modern-day requirements while retaining its old-world charm.
The Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground serves as a vital cog in the wheel for Karnataka's domestic cricket scene. Local heavyweights, the Karnataka State Cricket Team, make abundant use of it during the Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions. While it’s yet to carve out a spot on the international calendar, it has witnessed several crucial domestic matches that have defined careers and delighted the local populace.
This venue has earned a reputation for its sporting pitches that offer a little something for everyone. Fast bowlers can exploit the early morning conditions, especially in the monsoon, while batsmen relish the afternoon session as the pitch often flattens out, providing a good balance between bat and ball.
What really sets this ground apart, however, is its enchanting setting. With the Chamundi Hill serving as a scenic backdrop, matches here often unfold under the wistful gaze of the towering Chamundeshwari Temple. Architectural frills are minimal—there are no extravagant stands or plush lounges, but that’s part of its appeal, offering instead an unvarnished and genuine cricketing experience.
Accessibility is straightforward, with the ground being a short drive from Mysore's city centre. Auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis aplenty will get you there without fuss. Facilities for fans, such as food stalls and clean restrooms, ensure comfort without stealing the spotlight from the real star of the day: the cricket itself.
In many ways, this ground is a gentle reminder of cricket’s humble beginnings—a place where the game is cherished for its own sake, without the gloss of commercialisation. Whether you’re there to watch a pulsating domestic clash or just enjoy a day in the stands, the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground promises an experience that’s as authentic as it gets.
