Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

Venue description:

The stadium hosted its first ODI back in 1975 when Australia took on the West Indies. Over the years, many riveting contests have taken place at Adelaide Oval, including West Indies' great escape from the proverbial jaws of defeat to beat Australia by 1-run in a Test match in 1993.

Redevelopment of the ground between 2008 and 2014 at a cost of $575 million that involved constructing two new stands at the Southern and Eastern sides of the ground have perhaps taken away the blissful facade surrounding the stadium. However, the Northern hill, iconic Moreton Bay Figs and heritage scoreboard still give you a feeling of nostalgia.

The Adelaide Oval nestled across the backdrop of magnificence of glorious gardens and swaying trees makes for a scenic ground.

What is a drop-in pitch?

A drop-in pitch is a cricket pitch which is prepared away from the ground or venue in which it is used, and literally "dropped in" to place for a cricket match. This allows multi-purpose venues to host other sports and events with more versatility than a dedicated cricket ground would allow. 

How does the pitch play?

Generally, the Adelaide Oval is reckoned to be the best batting wicket in Australia. It plays very flat on the first three days of a Test match and as the match wears on it brings the spinners into the game. From 2013, Adelaide became host to the drop-in pitches.