Bellerive Oval, Hobart – Tasmania’s iconic cricket ground with 16,000 capacity. Famous for hosting Australia vs Sri Lanka Test in 1989, scenic views, and a pitch that favors both bowlers and batsmen.
Bellerive Oval (Blundstone Arena) is the headquarters of Tasmanian cricket. In 1987, cricket in Tasmania shifted from the old TCA Ground on Queen’s Domain, Hobart, to this scenic venue on the eastern shore of the Derwent River. Originally a community sports field, it has undergone progressive upgrades, with a major redevelopment completed between 2000–02, making it a world-class cricket destination.
History and Structure
- The venue has three principal stands – Southern Stand (capacity 5,800), Members Pavilion, and Players Pavilion.
- Two smaller stands and a traditional grass hill (Hill Stand) on the eastern side together provide a total crowd capacity of 16,000 spectators.
- The playing surface dimensions are 175m × 135m, slightly longer but narrower than the iconic MCG.
Pitch and Playing Conditions
- The first turf wickets were laid in 1957. Later, the noticeable slope was removed, and the ground was fully leveled.
- The central 10-strip wicket area is made of couch grass, while the perimeter pitches use English rye grass to withstand the cooler Tasmanian climate.
- Traditionally, the wicket offers early assistance to bowlers, but as the match progresses, it turns into a batting-friendly paradise.
- Afternoon sea breezes from the Derwent River often influence the game, adding a unique challenge for players.
Test Cricket Debut
Bellerive Oval hosted its first Test match in 1989, when Australia played against Sri Lanka, marking Tasmania’s arrival on the international cricket map.
