County Ground

County Ground
City: Derby
Country: England
Capacity: 9500

History

Fixtures

Nestled in the East Midlands, the County Ground in Derby, England, carries with it a rich tapestry of cricketing history that dates back to its establishment in 1863. As the home ground for Derbyshire County Cricket Club, the stadium lies quite comfortably within the realms of English sporting tradition. This venue has been a cornerstone for local cricket, with its quaint English charm and homely atmosphere inviting both players and fans year after year.

With a seating capacity that comfortably accommodates around 5,000 spectators, the County Ground is modest in size compared to the increasingly colossal stadiums that dot the international cricket landscape. Despite its relatively small scale, the ground has undergone various renovations to maintain it up to standard, including significant upgrades to the pavilion and other facilities over the years to enhance the experience for players and fans alike.

Derbyshire's home games in the County Championship and domestic limited-overs competitions routinely take centre stage here, fostering a loyal local following. The team brings a sense of identity to the ground, and on match days, there's a buzz of excitement and camaraderie that reverberates around this historic venue.

Throughout its history, the ground has hosted a fair share of notable matches. Though mainly a bastion for county cricket, the venue has occasionally stepped onto the international stage. The 1983 Cricket World Cup saw this ground hosting its fair share of exhilarating encounters, leaving a lasting mark in its storied past. Moreover, various domestic highlights, such as high scores and dramatic victories, have added layers to its character.

In terms of pitch conditions, the track at Derby is known to be friendly to batsmen, although the notoriously unpredictable English weather can bring its own set of challenges, turning games into thrilling contests that test a cricketer's mettle.

What makes the County Ground stand out is its quintessentially English feel. With a mix of modern and traditional architecture, spectators can enjoy uninterrupted views of the play while feeling the essence of cricket from days gone by. The ground is easily accessible, situated a convenient distance from Derby city centre, with ample public transport options and parking facilities making it fan-friendly.

Despite its limitations, the County Ground in Derby remains a cherished part of cricket's rich tapestry. It proudly retains its place in the heart of English county cricket, bringing together the community through sport in a most authentic and delightfully unpretentious manner.

North Group, North Group, T20 Blast - July 19, 2024