Historic Home of Essex Cricket
County Ground, Chelmsford has been the headquarters of Essex Cricket (Essex HQ) since 1967 and is one of England’s most prestigious cricket stadiums. The ground is known for its windy conditions and excellent drainage system, which was further improved in 1982.
Ground Structure and Facilities
- County Ground, Chelmsford is a compact cricket ground, yet makes excellent use of the available space.
- It features double-decker seating, marquees, executive suites, and mostly single-tier seating, offering spectators an excellent view of the game.
- The Pavilion, built in the 1970s, has been recently extended and houses a collection of cricket memorabilia.
- It is one of only two grounds with permanent floodlights, installed in 2002, enabling day-night matches.
Cricketing Records and Highlights
- Graham Gooch scored the majority of his 40,000+ first-class runs at this ground, showcasing its cricketing significance.
- The Essex team has enjoyed its most successful seasons here.
- A memorable moment for Surrey: in 1983, they recorded their lowest innings total of 14 runs at this ground.
Ground Geography and Other Uses
- The playing area slopes slightly from south-east to north-west, creating strategic challenges and opportunities for both batsmen and bowlers.
- Historically, the ground was also used as a standby emergency helicopter landing area for a nearby hospital until the casualty department was relocated.
Matchday Experience and Importance
- County Ground, Chelmsford combines historical charm with modern facilities.
- The Pavilion Terrace and executive suites offer comfort for players and spectators alike.
- The wind and slope provide both challenges for bowlers and scoring opportunities for batsmen.
