City: Sharjah
Country: United Arab Emirates
Capacity: 16000
Sharjah Cricket Stadium, nestled in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, is a venue with a rich tapestry of history and cricketing lore. Established in 1982, this humble stadium has grown into one of the most recognised cricket grounds in the world, transcending its modest beginnings.
With a seating capacity of around 16,000, Sharjah has seen several renovations over the years to cater to its ever-growing audience. While it's not the biggest or the most luxurious, what it lacks in grandeur, it makes up for in spirit. The stadium has undergone various upgrades, especially in terms of seating and facilities, to improve the spectator experience, but retains its unique character.
The ground has been favoured by various local teams in the UAE, serving as a crucial hub for domestic cricket. It's a home ground for the UAE national team and the frequent site for Pakistan 'home' games when circumstances necessitate.
Sharjah's international claim to fame is not just its longevity but the quality and drama of matches it has hosted. In its heyday during the 1980s and 1990s, the venue became the centre for many memorable One Day Internationals, thanks to the high-profile tournaments often sponsored by one of the stadium’s early patrons. It was a regular World Cup venue in the 1990s, with thrilling games that are etched in cricketing folklore, including Sachin Tendulkar’s iconic "Desert Storm" innings in 1998 against Australia.
The pitch at Sharjah usually favours the batsmen, offering a flat surface conducive to high scores but on occasions, it has also provided assistance to spin bowlers, adding an extra layer of intrigue. This makes gameplay here particularly interesting, with each match hinting at a slightly different plot.
Architecturally, Sharjah lacks some of the extravagance seen in other modern venues, yet it offers an intimate viewing experience that keeps fans close to the action. The stands might not be towering, but the low-ground and compact design ensure the buzz of excitement is palpable, making it a favourite among purists.
Located relatively close to the city centre, Sharjah Cricket Stadium is quite accessible. Although Sharjah isn’t smothered with glitzy transport options like its neighbour Dubai, you’ll find buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services perennially available for match-goers. Inside, the stadium accommodates basic amenities, fulfilling most fan needs without going over the top.
In sum, Sharjah Cricket Stadium is a space steeped in history and sentiment, offering an encounter with cricket that’s as unpretentious as it is cherished.
Pakistan
Afghanistan
Afghanistan
United Arab Emirates
Pakistan
United Arab Emirates
Pakistan
Afghanistan
United Arab Emirates
Afghanistan
United Arab Emirates
Pakistan
Afghanistan
Pakistan
United Arab Emirates
Bangladesh
United Arab Emirates
Bangladesh
United Arab Emirates
Bangladesh
