NEW DELHI: The breathtaking Himalayan cricket ground in Dharamsala is set to offer England a picturesque backdrop for the fifth Test against India, providing a silver lining to the disappointment of losing the series.
Situated in the scenic hill town of Dharamsala, known as the de facto capital of exiled Tibetans, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is renowned for its stunning location beneath snow-capped peaks.
England batsman Jonny Bairstow, set to mark his 100th Test at this captivating stadium, expressed his awe, comparing it favorably to Cape Town’s ground in South Africa. “It’s absolutely stunning here, I don’t think there’s a more picturesque ground in the world,” Bairstow remarked.
The backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain range, with peaks soaring over 4,600 meters, adds to the stadium’s allure. Despite the series being already decided in India’s favor with a 3-1 lead, the stadium is expected to draw a sizable crowd, including around 5,000 England fans eager to witness the match.
“It’s a beautiful venue, and I have come here because of that,” remarked Gordon Bacon, an 80-year-old England supporter, undeterred by the series outcome. “It’s going to be a great atmosphere because there are going to be a lot of England supporters.”
While the high altitude of the stadium might favor England’s veteran seamer James Anderson, the icy winds from the glaciers above could pose a challenge, with temperatures forecasted to hover just above freezing.
Designed to blend with its natural surroundings, the stadium’s architecture draws inspiration from Tibet’s Buddhist temples, reflecting the local community’s cultural significance. The brainchild of India’s Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur, the venue has become a favorite among international players.
“It’s the most loved venue for international players,” remarked Arun Dhumal, Indian Premier League chairman, emphasizing the stadium’s appeal to players from various cricketing nations.
As England fans prepare for the match, Lawrence Adair from London remained optimistic, anticipating a memorable experience despite the potential series loss. “The view sitting on the ground watching cricket surrounded by the Himalayas will more than make up for the loss,” Adair concluded.
(With inputs from AFP)
Situated in the scenic hill town of Dharamsala, known as the de facto capital of exiled Tibetans, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is renowned for its stunning location beneath snow-capped peaks.
England batsman Jonny Bairstow, set to mark his 100th Test at this captivating stadium, expressed his awe, comparing it favorably to Cape Town’s ground in South Africa. “It’s absolutely stunning here, I don’t think there’s a more picturesque ground in the world,” Bairstow remarked.
The backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain range, with peaks soaring over 4,600 meters, adds to the stadium’s allure. Despite the series being already decided in India’s favor with a 3-1 lead, the stadium is expected to draw a sizable crowd, including around 5,000 England fans eager to witness the match.
“It’s a beautiful venue, and I have come here because of that,” remarked Gordon Bacon, an 80-year-old England supporter, undeterred by the series outcome. “It’s going to be a great atmosphere because there are going to be a lot of England supporters.”
While the high altitude of the stadium might favor England’s veteran seamer James Anderson, the icy winds from the glaciers above could pose a challenge, with temperatures forecasted to hover just above freezing.
Designed to blend with its natural surroundings, the stadium’s architecture draws inspiration from Tibet’s Buddhist temples, reflecting the local community’s cultural significance. The brainchild of India’s Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur, the venue has become a favorite among international players.
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As England fans prepare for the match, Lawrence Adair from London remained optimistic, anticipating a memorable experience despite the potential series loss. “The view sitting on the ground watching cricket surrounded by the Himalayas will more than make up for the loss,” Adair concluded.
(With inputs from AFP)
