The Greenfield International Stadium pitch report reveals a dynamic and versatile playing surface that captivates cricket fans and strategists alike. Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, this state-of-the-art venue, also known as The Sports Hub, is renowned for its world-class facilities, scenic surroundings, and a pitch that challenges both batsmen and bowlers.
Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast planning to attend a match or an analyst diving into pitch conditions, this guide offers a comprehensive look at the stadium’s pitch behavior, historical records, upcoming matches, and visitor tips tailored for an unforgettable experience. From its bowler-friendly early conditions to batting-friendly evenings influenced by dew, the Greenfield International Stadium promises thrilling contests.
This article covers everything you need to know about the Greenfield International Stadium, including its unique pitch dynamics, memorable matches, and practical advice for visitors. You’ll find insights into how the pitch behaves across T20Is and ODIs, detailed performance statistics, and tips for navigating the stadium and its surroundings. Whether you’re looking to book tickets, explore nearby attractions, or understand the venue’s strategic importance, this guide is your go-to resource for all things Greenfield.
Key Highlights of This Guide:
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Pitch Dynamics: Explore how the Greenfield International Stadium pitch favors bowlers early and batsmen later due to dew.
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Historical Records: Relive iconic matches, including India’s 317-run ODI victory and West Indies’ 173/2 T20I chase.
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Visitor Tips: Learn about ticketing, parking, and the best gates for entry to enhance your match-day experience.
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Local Attractions: Discover nearby hotels, malls, and cultural landmarks to make your visit to Thiruvananthapuram unforgettable.
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Upcoming Matches: Stay updated on 2025 fixtures, including the Kerala Cricket League and potential international games.
Greenfield International Stadium Pitch Report: Your Ultimate Guide to Thiruvananthapuram’s Premier Cricket Venue
The Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a modern marvel, blending cutting-edge infrastructure with eco-friendly design. With a seating capacity of 50,000, it hosts international cricket matches, domestic leagues like the Kerala Cricket League, and cultural events, making it a multi-purpose venue.
Built on a DBOT (Design, Build, Operate, Transfer) model, it’s India’s first stadium of its kind, featuring sustainable elements like solar panels and rainwater harvesting. Its strategic location opposite the University of Kerala ensures easy access and proximity to key city landmarks.
The stadium’s scenic backdrop, nestled amidst Kerala’s lush greenery, adds to its appeal for fans and tourists. Beyond cricket, it has hosted significant events like the 2015 SAFF Championship, where India clinched the football title. Whether you’re attending a high-stakes T20I or a cultural festival, the stadium’s modern amenities, including VIP boxes and food courts, ensure a comfortable experience.
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Seating Capacity: Accommodates 50,000 spectators with comfortable, strategically placed seating for optimal views.
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Eco-Friendly Design: Incorporates solar panels, LED lighting, and a rainwater harvesting system, making it India’s first fully eco-friendly stadium.
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Multi-Purpose Use: Hosts cricket, football, and cultural events, with dedicated zones for each sport.
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Modern Amenities: Features VIP boxes, food courts, and accessibility options for differently-abled visitors.
Greenfield International Stadium Pitch Report: Characteristics and Conditions
The Greenfield International Stadium pitch report highlights a surface known for its dynamic nature, offering varied conditions based on match format and time of day. Early in matches, the pitch is bowler-friendly, with moisture and slight cracks assisting both pacers and spinners.
As games progress, particularly in evening matches, dew sets in, reducing grip for bowlers and making the surface more favorable for batsmen. This dual nature demands strategic adaptability from teams, making it a fascinating venue for cricket analysts.
In T20Is, the pitch often leads to low to moderate scores, with an average first innings total of 114 runs. In contrast, ODIs have seen higher scores, with an average first innings total of 249 runs, as demonstrated by India’s 390/5 against Sri Lanka in 2023. Spinners tend to dominate during daytime matches, while pacers benefit from humid conditions early on. The pitch’s versatility ensures thrilling contests, with captains often opting to bowl first to exploit early conditions.
General Pitch Behavior
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First Innings Challenges: Early moisture and cracks make the pitch bowler-friendly, challenging batsmen to play cautiously.
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Later Innings Advantage: Dew in evening matches eases shot-making, favoring batsmen, especially in chases.
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Daytime Matches: Spinners find grip as the pitch dries out, making it ideal for spin bowling.
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Humid Conditions: Pacers can extract movement, particularly in overcast or humid weather.
Performance Statistics
|
Format |
Average Score |
Highest Score |
Lowest Score |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ODI |
249 |
390/5 (India vs. Sri Lanka, 2023) |
73 (Sri Lanka vs. India, 2023) |
|
T20I |
114 |
173/2 (West Indies vs. India, 2019) |
61/6 (New Zealand vs. India, 2017) |
These stats underscore the pitch’s balanced yet challenging nature, where strategic decisions like bowling first or selecting spin-heavy lineups can be game-changers.
Historical Records and Memorable Matches
The Greenfield International Stadium has hosted iconic matches that highlight its reputation as a challenging yet rewarding venue. In T20Is, the West Indies set the highest team score of 173/2 in 2019, chasing down India’s total with ease, thanks to Lendl Simmons’ unbeaten 67. Conversely, New Zealand’s 61/6 in a rain-affected 2017 T20I remains the lowest score recorded here.
In ODIs, India’s 390/5 against Sri Lanka in 2023, powered by Virat Kohli’s 166*, stands as the highest total, while Sri Lanka’s 73 all out in the same match marks the lowest. Notable individual performances include Arshdeep Singh’s 3/32 in a T20I against South Africa in 2022 and Ravindra Jadeja’s 4/34 in an ODI against West Indies in 2021.
The stadium’s history favors chasing teams, with 9 out of 14 T20 matches won by the side batting second, making toss decisions critical. Memorable moments, like India’s 317-run ODI victory over Sri Lanka in 2023, cement the venue’s status as a stage for cricketing brilliance.
Iconic Matches
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T20I Thriller (2019): West Indies chased 173 against India, showcasing aggressive batting under lights.
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ODI Dominance (2023): India’s 390/5 led to a 317-run victory over Sri Lanka, one of the largest margins in ODI history.
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Low-Scoring T20I (2022): India restricted South Africa to 106/8, with Suryakumar Yadav’s 33-ball 50 sealing an eight-wicket win.
Upcoming Matches and Schedule for 2025
The Greenfield International Stadium is set to host an exciting lineup of matches in 2025, including domestic tournaments and potential international fixtures. The Kerala Cricket League 2024, which continues into early 2025, features thrilling contests like AKS vs. TT and CG vs. TR, showcasing local talent.
While specific international matches at the stadium are yet to be confirmed, India’s packed 2025 schedule includes series against England, West Indies, and South Africa, with Thiruvananthapuram likely to host T20Is or ODIs.
Fans can anticipate action-packed encounters, especially in evening matches where the dew factor adds intrigue. Check platforms like Cricbuzz or the Kerala Cricket Association’s official website for the latest schedules and ticket updates.
2025 Match Schedule (Tentative)
Thiruvananthapuram’s Greenfield International Stadium is more than just a cricket venue it’s a cultural and sporting landmark in Kerala Greenfield international stadium pitch report.
Read on to discover why this stadium is a must-visit for cricket fans with actionable tips on accessing the venue enjoying local attractions, and making the most of your match-day experience.
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Tournament/Series |
Format |
Matches |
Dates |
Venues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Kerala Cricket League 2024 |
T20 |
Multiple Matches |
Jan–Feb 2025 |
Greenfield International Stadium |
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England Tour of India |
T20Is, ODIs |
5 T20Is, 3 ODIs |
Jan 22–Feb 12, 2025 |
Various (TBD for Greenfield) |
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South Africa Series in India |
Test, ODI, T20I |
2 Tests, 3 ODIs, 5 T20Is |
Nov–Dec 2025 |
Various (TBD for Greenfield) |
Tips for Visitors
Attending a match at Greenfield International Stadium is an unforgettable experience, but preparation is key. Book tickets early through platforms like BookMyShow or the Kerala Cricket Association’s website, especially for high-profile matches to avoid last-minute hassles.
Arrive at least an hour early for evening matches to navigate crowds and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The stadium offers ample restrooms food courts and accessibility features for differently-abled visitors ensuring a comfortable experience.
Practical Tips
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Parking: Available on-site with a fee of ₹100–₹200 depending on the match. Arrive early to secure a spot.
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Best Entry Gates: Use Gate 3 or 4 for quicker access, especially for North Zone seating.
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Prohibited Items: Avoid bringing water bottles, cameras, or large bags to speed up security checks.
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Local Hack: Grab budget-friendly street food like dosas or fish fry from stalls near Kariavattom Junction, just 0.5 km away.
Nearby Facilities and Attractions
Exploring Thiruvananthapuram around your match-day visit adds to the experience. The stadium’s prime location offers easy access to hotels malls transport hubs and cultural landmarks making it ideal for fans and tourists alike.
Nearby Hotels
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Hycinth Hotels (4-star, 0.8 km from stadium): Offers free Wi-Fi, a rooftop pool, and breakfast. Price range: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per night.
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Hilton Garden Inn (4-star, 1.2 km from stadium): Features modern rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining. Price range: ₹5,000–₹8,000 per night.
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Uday Suites (3-star, 2.5 km from stadium): Budget-friendly with cozy rooms and airport shuttle services. Price range: ₹2,500–₹4,000 per night.
Nearby Malls
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Lulu Mall (3.5 km, 10-minute drive): Kerala’s largest mall with over 200 shops, a food court, and a multiplex cinema. Notable stores include Zara H&M, and a hypermarket.
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Mall of Travancore (4 km, 12-minute drive): Offers premium shopping, dining options like KFC, and entertainment like arcade games.
Nearest Transport Hubs
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Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (14.4 km, 30-minute drive): Accessible via taxi (₹300–₹400) or local buses. Major trains like the Rajdhani Express connect here.
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Kazhakoottam Bus Stop (1.5 km, 5-minute walk): Frequent buses to the city center and auto-rickshaws (₹50–₹100) to the stadium.
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Metro Access: No metro is currently available, but the proposed Thiruvananthapuram Metro may include a stop near Kazhakoottam by 2027.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
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Napier Museum (5 km, 15-minute drive): A historic museum showcasing Kerala’s art and culture, perfect for a pre-match visit.
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Kovalam Beach (10 km, 25-minute drive): A scenic beach ideal for relaxing post-match, known for its lighthouse and water sports.
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Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (6 km, 18-minute drive): A revered temple with stunning Dravidian architecture, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
FAQs
1. What is the parking availability and cost at Greenfield International Stadium?
Parking is available on-site with spaces for cars and two-wheelers. Costs range from ₹100 for bikes to ₹200 for cars, depending on the match. Arrive early to secure a spot, as spaces fill up quickly during high-profile games.
2. How can I purchase tickets for matches at Greenfield International Stadium?
Tickets can be bought online via platforms like BookMyShow or the Kerala Cricket Association’s website. Prices range from ₹500 for general stands to ₹5,000 for premium seats, depending on the match. Book early for international games to avoid sell-outs.
3. Which are the best seating zones for viewing matches?
The North Zone offers excellent views of the pitch and is closest to the main action. Premium stands like the Pavilion provide added comfort and amenities. Book seats in higher tiers for a broader view of the game.
4. Are there good restaurants near the stadium?
Yes, nearby Kariavattom Junction (0.5 km) offers budget-friendly eateries serving Kerala-style fish fry and dosas. For a sit-down meal, try Hycinth Hotels’ restaurant (0.8 km) or Lulu Mall’s food court (3.5 km) for diverse options.
5. How do I reach the stadium by public transport?
Take a bus to Kazhakoottam Bus Stop (1.5 km) and walk or hire an auto-rickshaw (₹50–₹100). From Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (14.4 km), taxis or buses take about 30 minutes. Check local bus schedules for match-day frequency.
Conclusion
Greenfield international stadium pitch report in Thiruvananthapuram is a cricketing gem, offering a dynamic pitch, world-class facilities, and a vibrant atmosphere for fans. From its bowler-friendly early conditions to thrilling batting chases under lights, the venue delivers unforgettable matches, as seen in India’s 390/5 ODI triumph and West Indies’ T20I chase of 173. Whether you’re a local fan or a tourist, this guide equips you with pitch insights visitor tips and local recommendations to make your visit seamless.