The Guide to the ACA-VDCA Stadium: Pitch History & Visitor Tips

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, also known as Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium is a renowned cricketing venue famous for its unique pitch characteristics. Built in 2003 this stadium hosts thrilling ODIs, T20Is Test matches and IPL games drawing fans with its slow spinner-friendly pitch. Its coastal location adds dew as a key factor especially in night matches making it a strategic challenge for players.

This guide covers everything about the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium pitch report from its behavior across formats to historical records. Learn how the pitch evolves to favor spinners in Tests or supports high scoring ODIs. It also includes practical visitor tips like ticket booking and the best seating zones alongside nearby attractions for a complete experience.

Whether you’re a cricket fan, a player analyzing strategies or a visitor planning a trip, this article has you covered. Discover key moments like Rohit Sharma’s centuries explore nearby hotels and eateries and get local hacks for a memorable visit. With upcoming matches in 2025–2026 this is your ultimate resource for the ACA-VDCA Stadium.

Key Highlights:

• Stadium Overview: Located in Visakhapatnam, built in 2003, with a 28,000-seat capacity and modern facilities.

• Pitch Characteristics: Slow, spinner-friendly pitch; dew impacts night matches, especially in T20Is and ODIs.

• Historical Highlights: Iconic records include India’s 387/5 (ODI, 2019) and Ravindra Jadeja’s 6/63 (Test, 2016).

• Visitor Tips: Guides on ticket booking, parking, seating, and entry hacks for a smooth match-day experience.

• Local Attractions: Nearby hotels, malls, beaches, and temples like Kailasagiri and Simhachalam for a complete trip.

ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium Pitch Report: Your Ultimate Guide to Visakhapatnam’s Cricket Hub

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, officially known as Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium is a cricketing gem in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh renowned for its unique pitch and thrilling matches.

This comprehensive guide dives into the stadium’s pitch characteristics, historical milestones visitor tips and local attractions, offering everything fans, players and analysts need to know.

Whether you’re planning a visit or seeking strategic insights for upcoming matches, this article is your go-to resource for experiencing the magic of this iconic venue.

Built in 2003, the stadium hosts ODIs, T20Is, Test matches, and IPL games, drawing crowds with its slow, spinner-friendly pitch and vibrant atmosphere.

From unforgettable performances like Rohit Sharma’s centuries to practical tips for navigating the venue this guide covers it all. Discover why the ACA-VDCA Stadium is a must-visit destination for cricket enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Read on to explore pitch behavior across formats, key records, ticket booking advice, nearby hotels, and local attractions that make Visakhapatnam a perfect cricket getaway. Don’t miss our FAQs and visitor tips to plan your trip seamlessly!

Key Highlights:

• Stadium Overview: Located in Visakhapatnam, built in 2003, with a seating capacity of 28,000.

• Pitch Insights: Slow, spinner-friendly surface with dew impacting night matches.

• Historical Moments: Iconic records like India’s 387/5 in an ODI and Ravindra Jadeja’s 6/63 in a Test.

• Visitor Essentials: Tips on ticketing, seating, parking, and nearby attractions.

• Local Attractions: Beaches, temples, and malls to enhance your stadium visit.

About ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium also known as Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium, is a premier cricket venue in Visakhapatnam Andhra Pradesh. Established in 2003 it boasts a scenic coastal backdrop modern facilities and a pitch that challenges players across formats.

Managed by the Andhra Cricket Association and Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association the stadium has hosted ODIs, T20Is, Test matches and IPL games cementing its status as a cricketing hub.

• Capacity: Accommodates up to 28,000 spectators with plans for future expansion.

• Location: Situated in PM Palem, Visakhapatnam, accessible via road, rail, and air.

• Events Hosted: Memorable clashes include India’s 387/5 against West Indies in 2019 and thrilling IPL encounters.

• Ambiance: Known for its lively crowd and coastal breeze, enhancing the match-day experience.

The stadium’s strategic location and unique pitch make it a favorite for both players and fans, offering a blend of competitive cricket and local charm.

ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium pitch is renowned for its dual nature balancing opportunities for batsmen and bowlers.

Its slow spinner-friendly surface combined with coastal humidity and dew creates dynamic match conditions. Understanding these characteristics is key for teams strategizing for success.

Pitch Stories of Iconic Indian Grounds: What You Should Know

Whether you’re planning match strategy, fantasy picks or just curious about how the pitch shapes the game, this breakdown gives you a clear view of what each venue offers.

MCA Stadium Pune: Balanced with a Spin Twist

Located in Pune, the MCA Stadium features a black-soil track that supports early bounce and pace making it exciting for both batters and quick bowlers.

As the match continues especially in Tests the surface wears and starts assisting spinners. Dew in limited-overs formats shifts momentum toward chasing teams.

Arun Jaitley Stadium Delhi: Flat Fast and Spinner-Friendly Later

In Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly Kotla), expect flat bounce and short boundaries early on creating a batting-friendly atmosphere, especially in T20s. But as games unfold, spinners begin to take over. Night matches often reward teams that chase.

HPCA Stadium Dharamshala: Altitude Adds a Unique Edge

Nestled in the hills HPCA Stadium brings altitude into play. Early overs favor swing and bounce, which fast bowlers love. But the nature of the surface still makes it fertile ground for batters. Weather has a strong influence dry periods boost batting totals while damp conditions benefit bowlers.

Brabourne Stadium Mumbai: A Fine Balance

Brabourne Stadium near Marine Drive, offers balanced conditions. T20 matches tend to be batting-friendly with consistent bounce and short boundaries, while longer formats gradually favor spin as the surface wears. Dew can tilt strategies in shorter games.

Eden Gardens Kolkata: Batters Shine, But Bowlers Get Early Thanks

Eden Gardens has historically balanced bat and ball, with early movement for pacers before settling into a slower, spinner-friendly surface. Most IPL and T20 matches here see higher scores with teams that chase often holding a slight edge, thanks to the fast outfield and balanced pitch that gradually leans toward spinners.

Pitch Characteristics Across Formats

The pitch at ACA-VDCA is a tactical battleground evolving differently across Test matches ODIs and T20Is. Initially it offers a hard true surface ideal for batting but as matches progress it slows down favoring spinners and strategic play.

• Test Matches:

  • Days 1–2: Batsmen enjoy a flat surface, ideal for building big totals.

  • Day 3 Onward: Cracks emerge, assisting spinners and reverse swing for pacers.

  • Example: India’s 566/8d against England in 2016 showcased early batting dominance, while Ravindra Jadeja’s 6/63 highlighted spin prowess later.

• ODIs:

  • Average Score: First innings typically yield 240–260 runs.

  • Conditions: Early swing for pacers, followed by spin dominance; dew aids chasing teams at night.

  • Memorable Moment: India’s 387/5 against West Indies in 2019, driven by centuries from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

• T20Is:

  • Pitch Nature: Slow surface favors spinners; pacers rely on variations like slower balls.

  • Average Score: First innings scores hover between 150–160.

  • Dew Impact: Makes chasing easier, influencing toss decisions.

  • Highlight: India’s 179/5 against South Africa in 2022, with R. Ashwin’s 4/8 stealing the show.

Table: Pitch Characteristics by Format

Format	Pitch Behavior	Average Score	Key Factors
Test	Batsmen-friendly early, spins later	300–350 (1st innings)	Cracks, reverse swing, spinners
ODI	Balanced, high-scoring with dew	240–260 (1st innings)	Swing early, dew at night
T20I	Slow, spinner-friendly, dew-heavy	150–160 (1st innings)	Dew, slower balls, spin

Boundary Dimensions and Strategy

The stadium’s boundary dimensions shape game strategies, balancing aggressive batting with defensive bowling tactics.

• Straight Boundaries: ~70–72 meters, challenging for lofted shots.

• Square Boundaries: ~65–68 meters, ideal for quick runs via cuts and drives.

• Mid-Wicket/Cover: Medium length, rewarding precise shot placement.

• Strategic Impact:

  • Batsmen: Exploit shorter square boundaries with innovative shots like reverse sweeps.

  • Bowlers: Spinners target longer boundaries; pacers use yorkers to limit scoring.

  • Fielding: Strong fielders at square boundaries counter big hitters.

Key Records and Historical Moments

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium has a rich legacy of unforgettable cricketing moments. Its pitch has been the stage for record-breaking totals and stellar individual performances across formats.

Table: Key Records Across Formats

Format	Highest Team Score	Lowest Team Score	Best Bowling Figures
T20I	179/5 (India vs. SA, 2022)	82/10 (SL vs. India, 2016)	R. Ashwin – 4/8 (vs. SL, 2016)
ODI	387/5 (India vs. WI, 2019)	92/10 (MI vs. SRH, IPL 2016)	Amit Mishra – 5/18 (vs. NZ, 2016)
Test	566/8d (India vs. England, 2016)	N/A	Ravindra Jadeja – 6/63 (vs. England, 2016)

Memorable Performances

• T20I: India’s 179/5 against South Africa in 2022, followed by a clinical bowling display, showcased the pitch’s chasing advantage.

• ODI: Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul’s centuries powered India to 387/5 against West Indies in 2019, a record ODI total at the venue.

• Test: India’s 566/8d against England in 2016, coupled with Jadeja’s 6/63, highlighted the pitch’s evolution from batting-friendly to spin-dominant.

• IPL: Adam Zampa’s 6/19 for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 remains a standout bowling performance.

Upcoming Matches at ACA-VDCA (2025–2026)

The upcoming matches at ACA-VDCA Stadium (Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium) for the 2025–2026 period include:

• IPL 2025 matches held at the stadium in March and April 2025 with teams like Delhi Capitals playing home matches here. (For example, DC vs LSG on March 24, and DC vs SRH on March 30, 2025.)

• T20Is: Spin-friendly conditions will challenge batsmen.

• ODIs: Pacers to dominate early; dew to influence night games.

• Tests: Spinners to shine as the pitch wears down.

• India international matches scheduled in 2025–26 at ACA-VDCA include:

  • The 3rd ODI of the India vs South Africa series on December 6, 2025.

  • The 1st T20I of the India vs South Africa series on December 9, 2025.

  • Also, the 4th T20I of the India vs New Zealand series on January 28, 2026.

• Domestic tournaments such as the Andhra Premier League in 2025 are played here from August 2025 with multiple matches involving teams like Kakinada Kings, Amaravati Royals, Vijayawada Sunshiners, and others.

• The Andhra Cricket Association’s domestic schedule for 2025-26 includes events and matches at ACA-VDCA, including senior men’s and women’s tournaments in July 2025 and onward.

Visitor Information and Tips

Planning a visit to the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium? Here’s everything you need to know for a seamless experience:

• Ticket Booking: Available online via BookMyShow or at the stadium box office during match days. Book early for high-demand games like IPL matches.

• Seating Tips: Opt for covered stands (e.g., Pavilion End) for shade during day games. Upper tiers offer better views for Test matches.

• Entry Hacks: Arrive 1–2 hours early to avoid crowds. Use Gate 2 for quicker access during peak times.

• Prohibited Items:

  • No outside food, water bottles, or sharp objects.

  • Cameras with detachable lenses are restricted.

• Local Tip: Visit nearby street food stalls at Lawson’s Bay for authentic Andhra cuisine post-match.

Nearby Facilities and Attractions

The ACA-VDCA Stadium’s location in Visakhapatnam offers easy access to hotels, malls, transport, and tourist spots, making it a perfect destination for cricket fans and travelers.

Nearby Hotels

Hotel Name	Star Rating	Distance from Stadium	Key Features	Price Range (INR)
Novotel Visakhapatnam	5-star	2.5 km (7-min drive)	Sea views, pool, fine dining	7,000–12,000
The Gateway Hotel	4-star	3 km (10-min drive)	Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, spa	5,000–9,000
Dolphin Hotel	3-star	1.5 km (5-min drive)	Budget-friendly, rooftop dining	3,000–5,000

Nearby Malls

• CMR Central: 2 km (6-min drive). Features a food court, PVR Cinemas, and stores like Westside and Reliance Trends.

• Visakhapatnam Central Mall: 3.5 km (10-min drive). Offers dining options like Barbeque Nation and shopping at Lifestyle.

Nearest Transport Hubs

• Railway Station: Visakhapatnam Junction, 8 km (20-min drive). Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available; expect a fare of INR 150–200.

• Bus Stop: Maddilapalem Bus Stop, 1 km (5-min walk). Frequent buses connect to the stadium; look for Route 404 or 28A.

• Metro: No metro currently; proposed Visakhapatnam Metro expected by 2027.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Kailasagiri Hill Park: 4 km (12-min drive). Offers panoramic views, a toy train, and lush gardens.

• R.K. Beach: 5 km (15-min drive). Perfect for a post-match stroll with street food vendors.

• Simhachalam Temple: 10 km (25-min drive). A historic hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha.

Stadium Access and Parking Tips

• Parking: Available at the stadium for INR 50–100 per vehicle. Limited spots, so arrive early.

• Best Arrival Time: 2 hours before the match to secure parking and clear security.

• Local Hack: Park at CMR Central Mall (2 km away) for INR 30 and take an auto-rickshaw to avoid stadium congestion.

FAQs

1. How much do tickets cost for matches at ACA-VDCA Stadium?
Ticket prices vary by format: INR 500–5,000 for IPL, INR 300–3,000 for T20Is, and INR 200–2,000 for Tests. Book via BookMyShow for early-bird discounts. Check the official BCCI website for exact prices.

2. Is parking available at the stadium?
Yes, parking is available for INR 50–100 per vehicle, but spaces are limited. Arrive early or park at nearby CMR Central Mall and take an auto-rickshaw.

3. What are the best seating zones for viewing matches?
The Pavilion End and Upper Tier offer great views and shade for day games. For T20Is, choose stands near square boundaries for action-packed moments.

4. Are there good hotels near the ACA-VDCA Stadium?
Yes, options like Novotel (5-star, 2.5 km) and Dolphin Hotel (3-star, 1.5 km) cater to different budgets. Book early during IPL season for availability.

5. How can I reach the stadium from Visakhapatnam Junction?
Visakhapatnam Junction is 8 km away. Take a taxi (INR 150–200) or an auto-rickshaw (INR 100–150) for a 20-minute ride. Buses from Maddilapalem (1 km) are also convenient.

6. What attractions can I visit near the stadium?
Explore Kailasagiri Hill Park (4 km), R.K. Beach (5 km), or Simhachalam Temple (10 km) for a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

Conclusion

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam is a vibrant venue where thrilling cricket meets coastal charm. From its spinner-friendly pitch to iconic moments like India’s 387/5 in 2019, it’s a must-visit for fans and travelers. Explore our guide for pitch insights visitor tips and local attractions and share your experience on our website or plan your trip today!