Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is a well-known cricket stadium situated in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Notably, the stadium laid its foundation on 27th of November, 2009. Moreover, it became the world’s 104th Test venue in December, 2010. It is the symbol of modern cricket infrastructure and a testament to the nation’s passion for sport. Moreover, you might want to know more about this amazing and great stadium. Right? Well, in this blog, you will be provided with all the relevant and complete information about this stadium. You just need to stick around with this blog till the end of the discussion. This blog is all about Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
About Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium was formed in 2009 to meet the demands of high quality cricket venues in Sri Lanka. This stadium is established in Kandy. It provides easy access to live matches to cricket fans from Sri Lanka. Moreover, the construction of this stadium in Sri Lanka is a plan to extend its cricketing infrastructure. Notably, the construction of this stadium began in 2006 and finished in late 2009. However, the stadium officially opened on 27th of November, 2009 with a domestic match. Moreover, it quickly began hosting international fixtures. On 1st of December, 2010, Pallekele Stadium hosted its first international match, which was a Test series between Sri Lanka and West Indies. This test series marked the journey of this stadium as a significant venue for hosting international cricket.
Location of Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is located around 15 kilometers east of Kandy on the A26 highway. Notably, the stadium has a seating of around 35000 spectators. The location of the stadium is justified with its stunning views of surrounding hills and the Mahaweli River. Mahaweli River is considered as the longest river of Sri Lanka. It adds to the scenic beauty of the stadium.
Design of Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Notably, the stadium was created with a modern approach. It mainly focuses on functionality while embracing the natural beauty of the hills and Mahaweli River. The architecture used elements that blend with the greenery and rolling hills of Kandy. Notably, the seating arrangement ensures that the audience have an amazing view of the pitch from any angle. Additionally, one of the best features of this stadium is its open-air design. This allows the cool breezes from the nearby hills to flow through, which provides a comfortable and soothing environment to the players as well as viewers. The stadium also has floodlights, which enables day and night matches and adds to the versatility of the stadium.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: Memorable Matches
From the beginning, this stadium has been a great venue for the various memorable international matches. The first international match that took place in this stadium was the 2010 Test series between Sri Lanka and the West Indies. This match was very significant as it marked the journey of this stadium as an international cricket stadium. However, the match ended in a draw. Notably, the most iconic moment in the history of this stadium is the 2011 ICC World Cup. The stadium hosted three group stage matches, which included the clash between Sri Lanka and New Zealand. Undoubtedly, the match was won by Sri Lanka, with Muttiah Muralithaeran playing in front of his home crowd. He took major wickets and secured his place as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of cricket.
Not only this, this stadium has also been the venue for several records. Notably, the highest individual score in ODIs at Pallekele is held by Zimbabwe’s Hamilton Masakadza. He scored 178 runs and was not out against Kenya in 2009. In T20 internationals, the highest score at this stadium is 260/6, which was achieved by Sri Lanka against Kenya in 2009.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: Amenities and Infrastructure
Pallekele stadium offers modern facilities that cater to the needs of both players as well as the viewers. Notably, the player facilities include indoor practice nets, a gymnasium and dressing rooms. In addition to this, the stadium also has a media center, which can allow a large number of journalists and broadcasters. However, for the viewers, the stadium offers a comfortable viewing experience with ample seating, stands, food and beverage outlets. Apart from that, the accessibility to the stadium has also been enhanced by improving transport links. This makes it easier for the spectators to reach the venue. Additionally, parking facilities are also available. However, it is suggested to use public transport to minimize the congestion on match days.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: The Pitch and playing conditions
The pitch of Pallekele stadium is very well balanced, which offers a great field for the batsmen as well as bowlers. Formerly, the pitch was considered to be bowler friendly due to the moisture in the air and grass over the surface. Moreover, over the time, the pitch of the stadium has evolved to become conductive to batting as well.
Talking about the playing conditions, the weather is noted to be soothing during the matches. This region experiences a tropical climate with sometimes heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. Hence, sometimes, the matches are interrupted by rainfall. Otherwise the weather is very comfortable for playing the matches at Pallekele stadium.
Final words
In brief, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has become an international venue for the significant matches. Notably, it is one of the best international stadiums in Sri Lanka. It offers various facilities to the spectators as well as the players. Tell us your thoughts on this stadium in the comments section.
