Moin-ul-Haq Stadium

Nestled in the heart of Patna, India, the Moin-ul-Haq Stadium stands as a testament to the city's long-standing passion for cricket. Officially opened in 1969, the stadium bears the name of Moin-ul-Haq, a former Director-General of the Indian Olympic Association. Though time and tides seem to have left their marks, the ground continues to harbour the memories and hopes of cricketers and fans alike.

The stadium boasts a seating capacity of approximately 25,000, embodying a sense of intimacy where crowd roars seem almost amplified. Over the years, it has seen a few facelifts, though perhaps none too ostentatious, reflecting its understated charm. Despite its modesty, the ground has played host to several notable cricketing moments. It proudly hosted two One Day Internationals in 1993 and 1996 — the latter being part of the ICC Cricket World Cup, when Zimbabwe took on Kenya.

Domestically, the stadium serves as the home for the Bihar cricket team, where local talents have cut their teeth, and fans ardently support their home-grown stars. The venue still clings to its domestic roots, persistently nurturing budding cricketers.

When it comes to the pitch, it has a reputation for being somewhat benign. It's not the kind of strip that routinely threatens batsmen with outrageous swing or spin; instead, it offers a balanced contest, allowing both batsmen and bowlers to showcase their skills in equal measure. This balance makes it a respectable battleground for all forms of cricket.

The architecture of the Moin-ul-Haq Stadium is functional rather than flamboyant. Yet, there’s an eclectic charm about the old-fashioned stands, each carrying echoes of impassioned cheers and frantic appeals for wickets past. There isn’t a landmark that leaps out, but perhaps it is the unassuming simplicity that offers a quiet nod to the golden days of cricket, unhindered by modern commercialisation.

Situated in Rajendra Nagar of Patna, the stadium is accessible, connected by the city’s network of roads and public transport. Whilst not exactly brimming with the fancier amenities of more modern arenas, it caters to the essentials—offering fans a straightforward and familiar match-day experience.

Here at Moin-ul-Haq Stadium, the spirit of cricket is kept alive amidst the voices of those eager to witness not just a game, but moments that turn matches into memories.