City: Napier
Country: New Zealand
Capacity: 10500
McLean Park, nestled in the charming city of Napier on New Zealand's North Island, has grown to be one of the most cherished cricket venues in the country. Established way back in 1911, the ground has a rich history that mirrors the evolution of cricket in New Zealand. It underwent a significant transformation in 1952 when it was officially re-opened, setting the stage for local and international cricketing drama.
The stadium seats around 19,700 spectators, a decent number for a venue that has seen New Zealand’s highs and lows in both domestic and international fixtures. Over the years, McLean Park has witnessed several upgrades, notably the introduction of floodlights in 2009 to accommodate day-night matches, enhancing its allure for fans and players alike.
The Central Stags call McLean Park their home, marking the pitch with frequent domestic first-class games that have shaped the careers of many New Zealand cricketers. On the international front, the park has hosted its fair share of notable encounters, including World Cup matches. One standout moment was during the 1992 Cricket World Cup when England took on New Zealand, a game remembered for Martin Crowe’s tactical brilliance.
McLean Park is known for its drop-in pitch, which has often been a talking point among cricketers. Known to be a batsman's delight, the pitch usually offers very little support for bowlers, leading to high-scoring contests that keep crowds on the edge of their seats all day. Despite this, conditions can change with the weather, and the coastal winds often have a say in the match dynamics.
Perhaps what makes McLean Park unique is its location and accessibility. Situated near the heart of Napier, the area is known for its Art Deco architecture, making a trip to the stadium a cultural outing. While not as modern as some others, the stadium's charm lies in its scenic backdrop, with the gentle buzz of a nearby town and the sea air adding to its appeal.
Fans can easily get to McLean Park via public transport, and the venue is known for having a friendly, laid-back vibe that makes attending matches a real treat. Local street food vans pop up during match days, adding to the atmosphere. All in all, McLean Park may not be the biggest cricket ground around, but it holds its own with a quaint mix of history, local culture, and cricketing spirit.
New Zealand
Pakistan
New Zealand W
Sri Lanka W
Central Stags
Auckland Aces
Central Stags
Canterbury Kings
Auckland Aces
Central Stags
Central Stags
Otago Volts
Central Stags
Wellington Firebirds
New Zealand
Bangladesh
New Zealand
Bangladesh
