HPCA Stadium Pitch Report: Batting, Bowling Analysis & Match

The HPCA Stadium pitch report is a topic of great interest for cricket enthusiasts and analysts. Located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, this high-altitude stadium offers stunning mountain views and a unique playing environment. The pitch is known for its unpredictable nature, making it exciting for both batters and bowlers. Seasonal weather conditions and altitude often play a critical role in how matches unfold here.

The pitch behavior varies across formats like T20, ODI, and Test cricket. While fast bowlers enjoy swing and bounce in the early overs, spinners tend to dominate as the match progresses. The stadium has hosted iconic matches, including high-scoring thrillers and low-scoring nail-biters. Records like India’s highest ODI score (330/6) and key bowling performances add to its intrigue.

Beyond the game, the stadium is a popular tourist spot. It features modern facilities, scenic surroundings, and easy accessibility. Whether you’re a cricket fan looking for match insights or a tourist planning to visit, this guide will help you understand everything about the HPCA Stadium pitch report.

Key Highlights

  • HPCA Stadium is located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, with a seating capacity of 23,000.
  • The pitch supports fast bowlers early but favors spinners in later stages.
  • Weather and altitude significantly influence pitch behavior.
  • Average scores: 160-180 in T20s and 250-280 in ODIs.
  • Iconic matches include India’s 330/6 against West Indies in an ODI.
  • Open for tourists with guided tours and nominal entry fees.

HPCA Stadium Pitch Report: Everything You Need to Know

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala, India, is renowned for its picturesque location and high-altitude setting. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the stadium offers a unique cricketing experience for players and fans alike. Known for its unpredictable pitch behavior, the HPCA Stadium’s pitch report is crucial for teams and enthusiasts to strategize effectively.

Whether you’re looking for batting or bowling insights, historical records, or visitor information, this guide covers everything you need to know about the HPCA Stadium pitch.

About HPCA Stadium: Key Facts

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most scenic and unique cricket grounds. Nestled at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level, the stadium is surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range, offering breathtaking views alongside world-class cricketing action.

Location and Accessibility

  • State: HPCA Stadium is located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
  • Nearby Landmarks: Just 6 km from McLeod Ganj and surrounded by the Dhauladhar mountain range.
  • Distance from City Center: Approximately 10 km from Dharamshala’s main city center.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Closest airport is Kangra Airport, 12 km away.
  • By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from major cities like Chandigarh and Delhi.

Dimensions and Features

  • Seating Capacity: Approximately 23,000 spectators.
  • Field Dimensions: Standard ICC-approved dimensions with lush green outfields.
  • Unique Features:
    • High-altitude location enhances the ball’s swing.
    • State-of-the-art facilities for players and spectators.

The HPCA Stadium blends world-class infrastructure with breathtaking views, offering an unmatched experience.

HPCA Stadium Pitch Report

The HPCA Stadium pitch in Dharamshala is known for its dynamic and challenging nature, influenced by weather, altitude, and match formats. The pitch provides an exciting balance between batting and bowling, ensuring competitive matches across T20s, ODIs, and Tests.

Record Type Statistics
Highest T20 Score India, 200/3 vs. South Africa (2015)
Lowest T20 Score South Africa, 89/10 vs. India
Highest ODI Score India, 330/6 vs. West Indies
Best Bowling (T20) Ravichandran Ashwin, 4/11
Best Bowling (ODI) Mitchell Starc, 4/27

General Pitch Behavior

  • Batting vs. Bowling: The pitch generally favors fast bowlers due to its altitude and hard surface. However, spinners get assistance as the match progresses.
  • Weather Impact: Weather in Dharamshala plays a critical role, with rain and moisture often impacting the pitch behavior.
  • Seasonal Variations:
    • Summer: Better for batting.
    • Winter and Monsoons: Assists bowlers due to dampness and overcast conditions.

Format-Specific Pitch Analysis

The HPCA Stadium pitch adapts differently across cricket formats, making it a versatile and unpredictable playing surface. Here’s a breakdown of how it performs in T20s, ODIs, and Test matches.

Format Average Scores Pitch Behavior
T20 160-180 runs Assists pacers early, becomes batting-friendly later.
ODI 250-280 runs Swing bowlers dominate the first 10 overs.
Tests Varied Spin-friendly by Day 3, challenging for batters.

Key Insights:

  • In T20 matches, teams chasing tend to win more often due to pitch flattening.
  • Pacers shine in the initial overs, but spinners take control in the middle overs.

The pitch behavior at HPCA Stadium offers dynamic challenges across all formats of the game.

HPCA Stadium Records and Statistics

The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala has witnessed some remarkable cricketing moments across formats, making it a venue etched in cricket history. From high-scoring thrillers to bowlers’ dream performances, the records at this stadium highlight its dynamic and unpredictable nature.

Memorable Matches and Records

  • Highest Score (ODI): India, 330/6 vs. West Indies.
  • Lowest Score (T20): South Africa, 89/10 vs. India.
  • Notable Performances:
    • Best Bowling: Ravichandran Ashwin’s 5/24.
    • Memorable Match: India vs. Australia, where spinners played a crucial role in a Test win.
Record Type Statistics
Chasing Record High success rate in T20 matches.
Best Bowler Spinners dominate in ODIs and Tests.

Visitor Information

  • HPCA Stadium Timings:
    • Match Days: Opens 3 hours before the match starts.
    • Non-Match Days: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Approx. ₹20-₹50 for tourists on non-match days.
  • Tours and Activities: Guided tours available showcasing the dressing rooms, pavilions, and practice areas.

Conclusion

The HPCA Stadium pitch is as dynamic as its surroundings are beautiful. Whether you’re planning a visit or analyzing match strategies, this guide provides all the insights you need. The unpredictable pitch behavior, coupled with stunning mountain views, makes HPCA Stadium one of the most unique cricket grounds globally.