City: Al Amarat
Country: Oman
Nestled in the hills of Oman, the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, particularly the Ministry Turf 2, is a testament to the growing passion for cricket in the region. Established in 2012, this ground forms a part of a larger facility that seeks to bolster cricket's profile in a nation where sports traditionally take a backseat. Although Oman has no deep-seated history with cricket like England or India, cricket has been steadily growing in popularity, thanks in part to venues like this.
The seating capacity of Ministry Turf 2 isn't its most dazzling feature—it's modest, accommodating around 2,000 spectators. Nonetheless, the venue has witnessed a few upgrades over the years to enhance both player and spectator experiences. It was a significant step up when Oman co-hosted matches during the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup, a notable moment in the ground's history that brought international attention.
As part of the Oman Cricket family, this ground serves as a home base for the Omani national team. It also frequently hosts domestic competitions including the Oman Premier League, a platform for showcasing promising local talent. Internationally, besides the T20 World Cup games, the venue has also seen various T20Is and ODIs, helping Oman climb the ladder in international cricket rankings.
Pitch-wise, the conditions at Ministry Turf 2 offer an interesting challenge. Typically dry and hard, the pitch here tends to favour batsmen initially with its consistent bounce, though as matches progress, spinners come into play, turning the tide in favour of teams that can leverage spin effectively.
Visually, the ground offers a serene, almost understated charm. Located in the relatively quiet and scenic backdrop of Al Amarat, it does not boast the imposing grandeur of urban stadiums but instead provides a unique, intimate viewing experience. The surrounding rocky hills serve as a natural amphitheatre, offering visitors a picturesque environment to enjoy a day's cricket.
In terms of accessibility, Al Amerat is about a half-hour drive from Muscat, Oman’s capital. While public transport options directly to the ground are scant, driving remains a feasible choice for fans. Facilities cater adequately for a ground its size with basic amenities ensuring that spectators can enjoy matches without hassle.
Though it may not yet be a household name in the cricketing world, Al Amerat Cricket Ground Ministry Turf 2 continues to carve out a unique niche, facilitating the sport's growth and nurturing a cricket culture in Oman.
