Welcome to our comprehensive exploration of the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a jewel in Sri Lanka’s sporting crown!
Imagine a cricket stadium nestled among rolling hills, where the gentle mountain breeze meets world-class cricket – that’s Pallekele for you!
Established in 2009 as part of Sri Lanka’s preparation for the 2011 Cricket World Cup, this magnificent venue has become much more than just a cricket ground.
With its stunning backdrop of the Hunnasgiriya mountains and state-of-the-art facilities, this 35,000-capacity stadium (affectionately known as the Muttiah Muralitharan International Cricket Stadium) has witnessed countless memorable cricket moments.
From nail-biting Test matches to explosive T20 encounters, Pallekele has become a symbol of Sri Lanka’s passionate cricket culture.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
Whether you’re a dedicated cricket fan, a casual observer, or simply interested in sporting venues, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about this remarkable stadium!
Essential Stadium Information
| Feature | Detail | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Official Name | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium | Also known as Muttiah Muralitharan International Cricket Stadium |
| Establishment | November 27, 2009 | Built for the 2011 Cricket World Cup |
| Location | Pallekele, Kandy, Sri Lanka | Central Province |
| Seating Capacity | 35,000 spectators | One of Sri Lanka’s largest venues |
| Shortest Boundary | 65 meters | Perfect for exciting batting displays |
| Longest Boundary | 74 meters | Challenges power hitters |
| Current Curator | Asitha Wijesinghe | Known for preparing balanced wickets |
| Floodlights | Installed in 2010 | Enables day-night matches |
| Playing Surface | Natural grass | Maintained year-round |
An Overview of the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium represents the perfect fusion of natural beauty and modern cricket infrastructure. Let’s explore its distinctive features in detail:
- Architectural Excellence:
- Modern pavilion design
- 360-degree viewing capability
- Premium hospitality boxes
- State-of-the-art player facilities
- Media center with the latest technology
- Environmental Integration:
- Natural hillside seating areas
- Panoramic mountain views
- Well-planned drainage system
- Natural air circulation
- Environment-friendly design elements
- Spectator Amenities:
- Multiple concession stands
- Clean washroom facilities
- Accessible seating areas
- Clear signage throughout
- Dedicated parking spaces
- First-aid stations
- Technical Facilities:
- High-quality floodlights
- Advanced scoreboard system
- Modern replay screens
- Professional broadcast facilities
- Backup power systems
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Dimensions
Understanding the stadium’s precise dimensions helps appreciate its design excellence:
Ground Specifications:
| Area | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Total Playing Area | 6,000 sq meters | Ensures international standard field |
| Length | 80 meters | Provides optimal playing conditions |
| Width | 75 meters | Allows strategic field placement |
| Outfield Grass | Bermuda | Facilitates fast outfield |
| Practice Facilities | 10 nets | Enables team preparation |
Boundary Information:
- Distance Variations:
- Shortest boundary: 65 meters (square of the wicket)
- Longest boundary: 74 meters (straight)
- Average boundary length: 70 meters
- Playing Ends:
- Hunnasgiriya End:
- Named after a nearby mountain peak
- Known for swing bowling
- Favored by pace bowlers
- Rikillagaskada End:
- Named after the local region
- Good for spin bowling
- Better batting end generally
- Hunnasgiriya End:
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Pallekele is renowned for its dynamic nature throughout matches. Let’s analyze its characteristics in detail:
Morning Session Characteristics:
- Fast Bowling Conditions:
- Fresh wicket offers significant seam movement
- Good carry to the wicketkeeper
- Consistent bounce
- Helpful conditions for swing bowling
- Pace-friendly surface
Mid-Day Conditions:
- Batting Paradise:
- Surface settles down nicely
- True bounce for batting
- Good value for shots
- Quick outfield
- Excellent for stroke play
Evening/Late Game Features:
- Spin-Friendly:
- The surface begins to grip
- Turn for spinners
- Variable bounce
- The slower ball becomes effective
- Challenging for new batsmen
Pitch Behavior Table:
| Time of Day | Characteristics | Favors |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Fresh, movement off the seam | Fast bowlers |
| Mid-day | True bounce, good pace | Batsmen |
| Evening | Turn, variable bounce | Spinners |
| Under lights | Extra swing, dew factor | Mixed conditions |
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Stats & Records
Let’s dive deep into the statistical treasures of this venue:
Test Match Records:
| Category | Record | Match Details | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Team Total | 648/8 dec | Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh | 2017 |
| Lowest Team Total | 117 all out | Sri Lanka vs Australia | 2016 |
| Best Batting Performance | 242 | Kusal Mendis vs Bangladesh | 2017 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 7/94 | Rangana Herath vs Bangladesh | 2017 |
| Highest Partnership | 308 runs | Dhananjaya-Roshen vs Bangladesh | 2017 |
ODI Milestones:
| Achievement | Details | Match | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Score | 381/3 | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | 2022 |
| Lowest Score | 70 all out | Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka | 2018 |
| Best Individual Score | 152* | Pathum Nissanka vs Afghanistan | 2022 |
| Best Bowling | 6/27 | Wanindu Hasaranga vs Zimbabwe | 2020 |
| Fastest Century | 66 balls | Glenn Maxwell vs Sri Lanka | 2016 |
T20I Notable Achievements:
| Record Type | Achievement | Player/Team | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Team Score | 263/3 | Australia | vs Sri Lanka |
| Lowest Team Score | 88 all out | New Zealand | vs Sri Lanka |
| Best Individual Score | 145* | Glenn Maxwell | vs Sri Lanka |
| Best Bowling Figures | 6/19 | Ajantha Mendis | vs Australia |
| Fastest Fifty | 18 balls | Glenn Maxwell | vs Sri Lanka |
Sri Lanka’s Performance at Pallekele
Let’s analyze the home team’s comprehensive record at this venue:
Overall Performance Summary:
| Format | Played | Won | Lost | Draw/Tie/NR | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 9 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 22.22% |
| ODIs | 36 | 19 | 16 | 1 | 52.77% |
| T20Is | 17 | 9 | 6 | 2 | 52.94% |
| Total | 62 | 30 | 25 | 7 | 48.38% |
Notable Sri Lankan Performances:
- Test Cricket Highlights:
- Most runs: Dimuth Karunaratne (587 runs)
- Best bowling: Rangana Herath (7/94)
- Highest individual score: Kusal Mendis (242)
- Best match figures: Rangana Herath (11/249)
- ODI Cricket Achievements:
- Most centuries: Pathum Nissanka (2)
- Best bowling: Wanindu Hasaranga (6/27)
- Most wickets: Lasith Malinga (23)
- Highest partnership: 215 runs (Nissanka-Mendis)
- T20I Records:
- Highest team score: 215/5 vs Pakistan
- Most T20I runs: Kusal Perera (389)
- Best bowling figures: Ajantha Mendis (6/19)
- Most sixes: Thisara Perera (19)
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many seats are in Pallekele Stadium?
The stadium boasts a capacity of 35,000 spectators, with a mix of general seating, premium seats, and corporate boxes. The seating arrangement provides excellent views from all angles of the ground.
- Which country is Pallekele Cricket Stadium in?
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is located in Sri Lanka, specifically in the scenic city of Kandy in the Central Province. The stadium’s location makes it easily accessible while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Is Pallekele International Cricket Stadium good for watching matches?
Absolutely! The stadium offers excellent facilities including:
- Clear sightlines from all seats
- Modern amenities
- Good food and beverage options
- Comfortable seating
- Protection from sun and rain
- Easy access to facilities
- What’s special about Pallekele’s location?
The stadium’s location in Kandy’s Central Province offers:
- Stunning mountain views
- Pleasant climate
- Good accessibility
- Cultural significance
- Tourist-friendly area
- What’s the history behind Pallekele Stadium?
Built-in 2009, the stadium has a rich history:
- Replaced historic Asgiriya Stadium
- Constructed for the 2011 World Cup
- Hosted numerous international tournaments
- Witnessed multiple record-breaking performances
- Continuous upgrades since the establishment
- Which airport serves Pallekele Stadium?
Kandy Airport, just 7.7 kilometers away, serves as the primary airport. Transportation options include:
- Taxis
- Private vehicles
- Public buses
- Hotel shuttles
- Rental cars
- Is it a batting or bowling-friendly pitch?
The pitch offers a perfect balance:
- Morning: Assists fast bowlers
- Mid-day: Excellent for batting
- Evening: Helps spinners
- Under lights: Good for all-round cricket
- What was the construction cost?
The combined cost with Hambantota Stadium was US$ 11.79 million, which included:
- Main stadium construction
- Practice facilities
- Infrastructure development
- Parking facilities
- Modern amenities
Also Check:
- Providence Stadium: Pitch Report, Records & Stats
Conclusion:
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium stands as a magnificent testament to Sri Lanka’s cricket legacy.
Its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure has created a venue that truly captures the essence of cricket in the subcontinent.
From its carefully curated pitch that offers something for everyone to its impressive record of hosting international matches, Pallekele has proven itself as a world-class cricket venue.
The stadium’s statistics tell a story of exciting cricket, while its facilities ensure that both players and spectators enjoy a premium experience.
Whether you’re watching a thrilling Test match unfold over five days or experiencing the excitement of a T20 game under lights, Pallekele provides the perfect setting for cricket at its best.
As cricket continues to evolve, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium remains a shining example of how traditional cricket values can be preserved while embracing modern amenities and technology.
For anyone planning to visit Sri Lanka or interested in cricket venues around the world, Pallekele should be on your must-visit list!