The Village – Malahide Cricket Club Ground, Ireland
Malahide Cricket Club Ground, commonly known as The Village, is one of Ireland’s premier cricket stadiums. The stadium is located in the Lady Acre field of Malahide Castle grounds and is owned by the Malahide Cricket Club.
The Village has been developed to accommodate around 11,500 spectators, making it the largest cricket venue in Ireland. It officially opened for international cricket in 2013.
History and Development
- Establishment: The stadium was developed under the management of Malahide Cricket Club.
- International Debut: Opened for international cricket in 2013.
- First Test Match: In November 2017, it was announced that Ireland’s first men’s Test match would be played here, which took place in May 2018 against Pakistan.
- The stadium was designed to provide world-class cricket facilities in Ireland and promote local cricket talent development.
Location and Accessibility
- Location: Malahide, Ireland.
- Nearest Airport: Dublin Airport, approximately 12 km away, 20–25 minutes by taxi.
- Rail and Bus Access: Regular train services from Dublin Connolly Station to Malahide; local buses also available.
- Road Access: About 20 minutes from Dublin by car or taxi.
Stadium Features
- Seating Capacity: ~11,500 spectators, making it Ireland’s largest cricket ground.
- Pitch: Balanced pitch offering challenges to both batsmen and bowlers.
- Pavilion/Facilities: Modern multi-purpose pavilion with player facilities, press box, and VIP areas.
- Amenities: Comfortable stands, food stalls, water stations, and parking for fans.
Notable Matches and Records
- First International Match: 2013.
- First Test Match: Ireland vs. Pakistan, May 2018.
- T20 and ODI Matches: Hosts regular international T20 and ODI fixtures.
- Special Events: Venue for Ireland’s first-ever men’s Test match, a historic milestone for Irish cricket.
Pitch and Playing Conditions
- T20 & ODI: Batter-friendly, especially in the first half of the innings.
- Test Matches: Pitch evolves over days; early stages favor batsmen, later stages assist spinners.
- Weather Impact: Malahide’s cool and humid climate influences ball movement, grip, and scoring patterns.
Fan Experience
- Fans enjoy a close-to-the-action seating experience.
- Food and Beverage: Local and international options available.
- Security and Parking: Well-organized for a smooth fan experience.
- Scenic views combined with Malahide Castle grounds make attending a match memorable.
