Botswana Cricket Association Oval 1, located in Gaborone, Botswana, is a prominent cricket venue and part of the Botswana Cricket Association sporting complex. Known for hosting international and regional tournaments, it serves as the main ground among the two BCA Ovals, alongside the nearby Oval 2, and complements other local venues like Lobatse Cricket Ground. Established in the early 2000s, the ground has become central to Botswana’s cricketing infrastructure, providing world-class facilities for players and fans alike.
The stadium regularly hosts ICC tournaments, Women’s T20 qualifiers, and domestic competitions, positioning it as a hub for cricket development in Botswana.
It features:
- Modern pavilions and player facilities
- Dressing rooms and practice nets
- Seating arrangements for local spectators
- Floodlights for day/night matches
- Well-maintained outfield and cricket pitches
📍 Location & Accessibility
City: Gaborone, Botswana
Proximity: Situated near the University of Botswana Stadium, accessible to central Gaborone
Transport: Well-connected via road; parking facilities available
Environment: Open, scenic grounds with surrounding greenery
🏏 Cricket History
First Major Event: 2011 ICC World Cricket League Division Seven
Notable Tournaments:
- 2011 ICC World Cricket League Division Seven
- 2013 ICC World Cricket League Division Seven
- 2021 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier
Multi-use: Primarily cricket, occasionally hosts local sporting and community events
🌟 Key Highlights & Features
Seating Capacity: Moderate, sufficient for local and regional matches
Specialty: Known as the primary cricket venue in Botswana with international-standard facilities
Pitch Behavior: Balanced pitch aiding both seamers and spinners
Facilities: Modern player amenities, practice nets, pavilions
Floodlights: Equipped for day/night matches
Tourist Attraction: Located in Gaborone; accessible for cricket enthusiasts and visitors
🏟️ Pitch & Outfield Characteristics
Pitch Type:
- Early overs: Seamers get slight assistance
- Later overs: Spinners can dominate as pitch wears
Batting Conditions: Batters can score freely if settled, bounce can test technique
Outfield: Fast and well-maintained, supports aggressive stroke play
Day/Night Matches: Floodlit facilities allow smooth play after sunset
🔥 Famous Matches & Tournaments
2011: ICC World Cricket League Division Seven fixtures
2013: ICC World Cricket League Division Seven matches
2021: ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier games
🎉 Fan Experience
Atmosphere: Friendly local crowd with a passionate following for cricket
Seating: Combination of permanent stands and temporary arrangements for larger events
Family-Friendly: Safe and welcoming environment for families and cricket fans
Tourism Blend: Fans can explore Gaborone city along with attending matches
Unique Appeal: Known as Botswana’s flagship cricket venue, central to the country’s cricket development
👉 Botswana Cricket Association Oval 1 remains a cornerstone of cricket in Botswana, offering modern facilities, hosting international and regional tournaments, and nurturing cricket talent in the country. Its combination of infrastructure, scenic location, and international recognition makes it one of the most important cricket grounds in Southern Africa.
