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Himachal Pradesh, one of the most beautiful states in India, known for its stunning mountains, green valleys, rivers, and peaceful atmosphere, is a popular place for tourists who love nature, adventure, and tranquility. The state is also famous for its charming towns and scenic spots like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala.
Among these, Dharamshala is famous not only for its natural beauty but also for its cricket stadium, which is famous worldwide for being one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world. The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, located here, is one of the most unique stadiums in the world, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. Know all about the beautiful stadium in the article.
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HPCA Stadium History
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala was born out of a vision to boost cricket in Himachal Pradesh. When Anurag Thakur became the President of HPCA in 2000, the state had only one cricket stadium, the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Una, and lacked the proper infrastructure to promote the sport effectively.
Thakur took on the challenge of creating a world-class cricket facility in the picturesque town of Dharamshala, surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar range. The stadium, spread across 16 acres, was completed in 2003, but it took a decade for it to host its first international match, when India played against England in an ODI in January 2013.
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The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association was established in 1960 with the aim of promoting cricket in the state. However, it wasn’t until September 29, 1984, during a meeting at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, that the association received official affiliation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The Himachal Pradesh cricket team has been competing in the Ranji Trophy since the 1985-86 season. The team achieved a significant milestone by winning its first-ever domestic trophy, the Vijay Hazare Trophy, in the 2021-22 season.
For most of their home matches, the team plays at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala.
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Dharamshala Stadium Capacity
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala can seat 23,000 spectators. Known for its stunning setting with snow-capped Himalayan mountains in the background, it is one of the few stadiums in the world situated at a high altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level.
Since its opening, the stadium has hosted two Test matches, nine One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 11 T20 Internationals. However, during peak winters, when the area experiences snow, it is not possible to organise matches at this venue.
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HPCA Stadium Tickets
The HPCA stadium sometime serves as the home ground of the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League. For tickets to Punjab Kings game at the HPCA stadium, you will have to book on the website of the official ticketing partner of the IPL.
For international matches at this venue, you will have to book the tickets on the website of the official ticketing partner of the BCCI. The prices of the tickets can be as low as Rs 500 and as high as Rs 20,000 for the corporate boxes.
HPCA Stadium Pitch
The pitch is usually fast and bouncy and also high scoring. Teams usually prefer chasing at this venue. In April this year, it was reported that HPCA is all set to get India’s first hybrid pitch.
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HPCA Stadium Records
The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala has hosted matches across all three formats. In Tests, only two matches have been played, with teams batting first losing both. The average scores show a trend of higher second-innings totals (404) compared to the first (259), with India’s 477 being the highest total, and Australia’s 137 the lowest.
In ODIs, nine games have taken place, with a slight advantage for teams bowling first (five wins). The average first-innings score is 253, while the highest total is Australia’s 388 against New Zealand. The lowest ODI score was 112 by India versus Sri Lanka. T20 matches at the venue show a preference for chasing teams, winning six out of 11 matches.
The highest T20 score chased was 200 by South Africa against India, with an average first-innings score of 137. The venue has seen some low scores defended, such as the Netherlands’ 59/5 against Ireland in a rain-affected match.
Here’s a properly formatted table for your stats that you can check:
STATS – TEST
Total Matches | 2 |
Matches won batting first | 0 |
Matches won bowling first | 2 |
Average 1st innings Score | 259 |
Average 2nd innings Score | 404 |
Average 3rd innings Score | 166 |
Average 4th innings Score | 106 |
Highest total recorded | 477/10 (124.1 Ovs) By IND vs ENG |
Lowest total recorded | 137/10 (53.5 Ovs) By AUS vs IND |
Highest score chased | 106/2 (23.5 Ovs) By IND vs AUS |
Lowest score defended | 0/0 (0 Ovs) By vs |
STATS – ODI
Total Matches | 9 |
Matches won batting first | 4 |
Matches won bowling first | 5 |
Average 1st innings Score | 253 |
Average 2nd innings Score | 228 |
Highest total recorded | 388/10 (49.2 Ovs) By AUS vs NZ |
Lowest total recorded | 112/10 (38.2 Ovs) By IND vs SL |
Highest score chased | 274/6 (48 Ovs) By IND vs NZ |
Lowest score defended | 245/8 (43 Ovs) By NED vs RSA |
STATS – T20
Total Matches | 11 |
Matches won batting first | 4 |
Matches won bowling first | 6 |
Average 1st innings Score | 137 |
Average 2nd innings Score | 128 |
Highest total recorded | 200/3 (19.4 Ovs) By RSA vs IND |
Lowest total recorded | 0/0 (0 Ovs) By vs |
Highest score chased | 200/3 (19.4 Ovs) By RSA vs IND |
Lowest score defended | 59/5 (6 Ovs) By NED vs IRE |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala stands out not only for its stunning location amidst the majestic Himalayas but also for its significant role in promoting cricket in Himachal Pradesh. With a capacity of 23,000 spectators, it has hosted numerous international matches across all formats.
The stadium’s unique features, such as its high altitude and picturesque surroundings, make it a favourite among players and fans alike.
As the venue continues to evolve, including the introduction of India’s first hybrid pitch, it promises to remain a vital part of Indian cricket while offering unforgettable experiences for visitors and cricket enthusiasts.
FAQ’s about HPCA Stadium
Q) What makes the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala unique?
A) The HPCA Stadium is renowned for its breathtaking location, surrounded by the snow-capped Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level, it is one of the few high-altitude cricket stadiums in the world. Its picturesque setting and serene atmosphere make it a standout venue for international cricket.
Q) What is the seating capacity of the HPCA Stadium?
A) The HPCA Stadium can accommodate up to 23,000 spectators. Since its completion in 2003, the stadium has hosted two Tests, nine ODIs, and 11 T20Is. However, due to snowfall during peak winters, it is not possible to organize matches year-round.
Q) How can I purchase tickets for matches at the HPCA Stadium?
A) Tickets for matches at the HPCA Stadium can be purchased through the official ticketing partners. For IPL matches featuring the Punjab Kings, tickets are available on the IPL’s official ticketing partner’s website. For international matches, tickets are sold via the BCCI’s official ticketing partner. Prices typically range from Rs 500 for regular seats to Rs 20,000 for corporate boxes.
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