City: Dehra Dun
Country: India

Nestled in the serene city of Dehra Dun, India, the Maharana Pratap College Ground is a cricketing venue that carries the essence of the region's passion for the sport. While not a giant in the world of cricket stadia when it comes to history or capacity, this ground established itself in local sporting lore since its founding in the early 2000s. Though specific records regarding the exact year of establishment are somewhat elusive, the ground has certainly grown in stature over time.
One might argue that its charm lies in its modest seating capacity, accommodating around 3,000 to 4,000 spectators. Over the years, the ground has seen some upgrades to enhance its facilities — a few stands being spruced up, and amenities improved to cater better to players and fans alike. This isn’t one of those colossal venues with towering floodlights or massive screens, but it boasts a certain intimacy that brings fans closer to the action.
The ground serves as a significant venue for local talent, with regional teams often using it as their playground. It's the home ground for college tournaments and has also been a nurturing space for budding cricketers from the area. The ground has, on occasion, hosted domestic matches, adding to its growing repute. While it hasn’t been graced by World Cup fixtures or participated in cricketing history's grandest moments, the matches here are fiercely competitive, often throwing unexpected surprises and heroic performances into the mix.
The pitch at Maharana Pratap College Ground tends to favour batsmen, its even bounce offering a playground for stroke-makers to thrive, while spin bowlers find some encouragement as the game progresses. This can lead to intriguing battles and often high-scoring encounters.
Spectators enjoy not only the matches but also the quaint charm of the Himalayan view that surrounds the ground, a constant reminder of Dehra Dun's scenic splendour. It's a grounding experience, where nature’s majesty meets sporting excitement.
Situated quite conveniently within the city, the ground is easily accessible. Public transport options abound, with local buses and auto-rickshaws regularly plying the routes leading to the venue. The vibrant city buzz coupled with friendly fan facilities, like small eateries serving local delicacies, adds to the ground's character. It's a place where cricket is watched as much for the sport as for the community of fans it builds.