City: Tangi, Cuttack
Country: India
Nestled in the bustling city of Tangi, Cuttack, the DRIEMS Ground is a gem of a cricket venue that resonates with local cricket enthusiasts. Established in the year 2005, this ground forms an integral part of the DRIEMS Group of Institutions, a name well-esteemed in educational circles. Though not the most famous cricket venue on the global map, it is a cherished home for budding cricketers and local clubs.
The ground boasts an intimate seating capacity of around 5,000, which offers a cosy yet vibrant setting for cricket lovers. Over the years, the venue has seen modest renovations, aimed more at maintaining its standards than at extravagant upgrades. While it may not boast cutting-edge facilities, the charm here lies in its simplicity and the sheer enthusiasm of the crowd.
Local teams, notably university and college teams, frequently grace the crease here, carving out a niche of competitive relationships that tend to raise the bar for regional cricketing talent. While not a regular host of international fixtures, it occasionally serves as a breeding ground for domestic competitions like the Ranji Trophy, sometimes offering a stage for players to showcase their flair.
The pitch at DRIEMS Ground is known to have a bit of everything—a touch of grass for seamers with a subtle assistance for spinners as the game progresses. It’s the kind of surface that demands proper technique, making it a challenging yet rewarding platform for batsmen willing to settle in and build an innings.
What truly sets DRIEMS Ground apart is its unpretentious ambience. Unlike pompous stadiums with towering stands, it offers a serene backdrop, with the sight of nearby institutional buildings enveloped by lush trees. The simplicity of its stands providing an unfiltered view of the game embodies the spirit of grassroots cricket.
Accessing DRIEMS Ground involves a short journey from the heart of Cuttack, with various local transport options like rickshaws and buses proving convenient and affordable for fans. Facilities cater to a basic yet comfortable matchday experience, with local vendors offering traditional snacks that add to the flavour of attending a game here.
In essence, the DRIEMS Ground is not just any cricketing venue; it is a crucible for local talent, a place that perhaps doesn’t glisten with the glamour of international stadiums but thrives on the passion and hopes of its ardent supporters. A visit here is less about the regalia and more about pure, unadulterated love for cricket.
