Sharjah Cricket Stadium, located in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, is one of the oldest and most prestigious cricket grounds in the Middle East. Established in the early 1980s, the stadium quickly became a hub for international cricket after India’s iconic 1983 World Cup win. It has a seating capacity of 27,000 spectators, which includes modern stands, corporate boxes, and VIP lounges. The ground also features large grass embankments for a relaxed and family-friendly viewing experience. Over the decades, Sharjah has hosted over 198 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), 4 Test matches, and multiple T20Is, making it one of the most active international venues globally.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium is fully equipped with modern amenities, including a media center, dressing rooms, practice nets, floodlights for day-night matches, and a world-class drainage system that ensures minimal disruption during rainy conditions. The stadium’s strategic location, close to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, makes it an ideal venue for neutral series and associate nation matches.
📍 Location
Sharjah Cricket Stadium is located in the heart of Sharjah city, UAE. It is easily accessible from Dubai (20 km) and Abu Dhabi (approx. 150 km), making it convenient for both local and international spectators. The stadium is situated near major highways, residential areas, and commercial hubs, allowing smooth commuting for fans. The proximity to Sharjah International Airport makes it an excellent venue for international teams traveling from around the world.
🏏 Cricket History
Sharjah Cricket Stadium gained international fame primarily through the Cricketers Benefit Fund Series (CBFS), initiated by Abdul Rahman Bukhatir in 1981. CBFS tournaments celebrated cricketers from India and Pakistan while promoting cricket in the UAE.
- 1984–2003: Hosted 198 ODIs, including triangular tournaments with India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
- 2002: Hosted 4 Test matches for Pakistan due to security concerns at home.
- 2003–2010: Temporary decline in international matches due to political and security issues.
- Post-2010: Venue resumed international cricket, especially for associate nations like Afghanistan, and neutral series.
The stadium is renowned for hosting high-voltage India vs Pakistan encounters, Asia Cup matches, and record-breaking ODIs, earning a unique place in cricketing history.
🌟 Key Highlights
- Largest and most iconic cricket stadium in Sharjah, UAE.
- Renowned for day-night ODIs under floodlights.
- Venue for high-profile India-Pakistan matches.
- Modern facilities: media center, corporate boxes, VIP lounges, practice nets.
- Large grass embankments provide family-friendly seating.
- Neutral venue for international cricket post-2010.
- Fully equipped with advanced drainage system to handle rain.
Famous Matches
- India vs Pakistan ODIs: Multiple high-voltage matches from 1984–2003.
- 1994 Triangular Tournament: India, Pakistan, and Australia; memorable finishes.
- Asia Cup Matches: Hosted several editions, becoming a key venue in the region.
- Test Matches (2002): Neutral venue for Pakistan during political instability at home.
- Associate Nation Matches: Afghanistan, Ireland, and other emerging cricket teams.
Fan Experience
Sharjah Cricket Stadium offers a vibrant and multicultural fan experience. Spectators can enjoy:
- Relaxed viewing on grass embankments or modern seating.
- High-intensity day-night matches with floodlights.
- Multicultural crowd comprising South Asian expats, Emiratis, and tourists.
- Food stalls offering local and international snacks.
- Merchandise shops with team jerseys and cricket memorabilia.
- Easy access via public transport and nearby highways.
Pitch Report & Conditions
- Pitch Type: Batting-friendly, flat with true bounce.
- Score Trends: Average ODI scores range from 230–280; chasing is slightly easier under lights.
- Bowling Assistance: Pacers get early swing; spinners come into play during middle and death overs.
- Outfield: Fast, lush, and true, aiding boundary scoring.
- Weather Impact: Hot, dry climate; occasional desert winds can aid swing.
