‘I Don’t Like Cricket, I Love It’ is a song often sang in ESLT HQ if there is an important match is on TV or Mr ESLT is preparing to head to a cricket ground to watch the game in person. There are three formats of cricket played at the international level. These are Test matches, One-Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals and Mr ESLT loves them all. Especially when the tension really builds and the match results in a cricket super over. He is also a fan of County Cricket. Therefore he is a regular visitor to Headingley Cricket Ground to watch Yorkshire play. Basically, if there is a bat and a ball – Mr ESLT is a fan. Over the years, Mr ESLT has ticked some of the world’s greatest cricket grounds off his list and is eager to visit as many more as possible soon.
So, if you love cricket and travel, here are 5 of the best grounds to add to your list too.
Lord’s, London, UK
Also known as the Home of Cricket, Lord’s Cricket Ground is a must for all cricket fans and has to top any list of the world’s greatest cricket grounds, especially as it is the most famous. Located in St John’s Wood, it is owned by Marylebone Cricket Club and is home to Middlesex County Cricket Club. International Tests, One Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals are played here together with domestic matches. Here you will also find the world’s oldest sporting museum which displays an extensive collection of historic cricketing art and memorabilia. Tours of Lords Cricket Ground are also available allowing you to see behind the scenes.
MCG, Melbourne, Australia
Known locally as “The ‘G”, you can find the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Yarra Park, Melbourne. The MCG is the second largest (based on capacity) cricket ground and the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also within walking distance from the city centre, making it a great ground for pre and post-match entertainment options. It also hosted both the first Test match between Australia in 1877 and the first One Day International in 1971. The MCG has over the years also played host to a range of sports including rugby union, rugby league and football. It is also regularly used for large scale concerts and gigs attracting world-famous artists.
Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India
Eden Gardens which was established in 1864 is the oldest and second-largest cricket stadium in India. It is also a beautiful, well-maintained stadium and the home ground for the Bengal Cricket Team. Many refer to the atmospheric ground as the home of Indian cricket. Therefore it holds an important place in the country’s cricketing history. It is also widely considered to be one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world, many calling it cricket’s answer to the Coliseum. Several important local and international cricketing events have been held at Eden Gardens. These include the 1987 World Cup final, the 1996 World Cup semi-final and the 1993 Hero Cup.
The (Kia) Oval, London, UK
Located in the London Borough of Lambeth, south London the Oval was in September 1880, the first ground in England to host international Test cricket. It has since gone on to host over 100 Tests and is known as the birthplace of the Ashes. It is also traditionally where the final Test match of the English season is played. Home to Surrey County Cricket Club, The Oval was established in 1845 and is the oldest of all Ovals. The Oval boasts an iconic location and is known for its history and unique gasholders that have since 1847 overlooked the ground.
Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa
Also known as Six Gun Grill Newlands for sponsorship reasons, the Newlands in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town is a ground worthy of being on any greatest cricket grounds list. It was established in 1890 and is the home of the Cape Cobras. It also hosts Test matches, the first of which was held on 24 March 1889. Together with One Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals. The Newlands is overlooked by Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak. Therefore many consider it to be one of, if not, the most beautiful cricket ground in the world. You can take a guided tour of the ground and a get behind-the-scenes glimpse of Newland’s history and pick up some memorabilia.
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