Sophia Gardens Stadium Records and Statistics for Fans

Sophia Gardens Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, is one of the most famous cricket venues in the UK. It hosts international matches, domestic games, and high-profile T20 tournaments. Over the years, the stadium has seen numerous record-breaking performances and memorable moments.

This article covers all the key statistics and records of Sophia Gardens. You will find information on highest scores, average scores, bowling figures, pitch behavior, and stadium capacity. We also explore recent matches, yearly records, and notable player performances.

Whether you are a cricket fan, analyst, or visitor planning a trip, this guide provides everything you need. From historic achievements to live match insights, Sophia Gardens offers a complete cricketing experience.

Key Highlights:

  • Overview of Sophia Gardens Stadium and its history.

  • Highest batting scores in ODIs, T20s, and Tests.

  • Bowling records and best figures at the ground.

  • Average scores and pitch behavior insights.

  • Stadium capacity, seating, and facilities for visitors.

  • Fixtures, events, and live match updates.

  • FAQs and essential tips for fans and visitors.

Sophia Gardens Stadium Records and Statistics

Sophia Gardens Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, is one of the most iconic cricket venues in the United Kingdom. Known for hosting international matches, domestic fixtures, and major tournaments, it has seen some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. From high-scoring ODIs to intense T20 clashes, this stadium has a rich collection of records and statistics that every cricket fan should know.

In this article, we explore Sophia Gardens’ stadium records, pitch behavior, average scores, historic performances, and venue details. Whether you’re a fan, analyst, or visitor planning your trip, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need.

With modern facilities and a vibrant cricketing atmosphere, Sophia Gardens continues to attract cricket enthusiasts from around the world. Let’s dive into its statistics, records, and key insights.

Ready to explore the full records and statistics of Sophia Gardens? Dive in and discover the highlights, memorable matches, and all the stats every cricket fan should know. Stay informed and experience the thrill of Cardiff’s iconic cricket venue.

Key Highlights:

  • Sophia Gardens hosts Test, ODI, and T20I matches.

  • The stadium is home to Glamorgan Cricket Club.

  • Records include highest scores, best bowling figures, and successful chases.

  • Pitch reports influence match strategies significantly.

  • The venue offers seating, ticketing, and event facilities for visitors.

Sophia Gardens Stadium Overview

Sophia Gardens, located in Cardiff, is a premium cricket venue with a seating capacity of over 16,000. Established in 1854, it has evolved into a modern stadium, hosting international matches and domestic tournaments. Its unique location alongside the River Taff offers spectators scenic views and a vibrant cricket atmosphere.

The stadium is particularly famous for ODIs and T20Is. Matches at Sophia Gardens often feature high-scoring games, influenced by the pitch conditions and weather. The venue has also been upgraded with advanced facilities for players, media, and fans.

For cricket fans, visiting Sophia Gardens is not just about watching the game. The stadium also provides guided tours, seating plans, and accessible ticketing options.

Key Points:

  • Location: Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.

  • Established: 1854; renovated multiple times for international matches.

  • Seating Capacity: ~16,000 with VIP sections.

  • Home Team: Glamorgan Cricket Club.

  • Venue Type: International & domestic cricket stadium.

Summary: Sophia Gardens is a historic yet modern venue, ideal for both spectators and players, offering rich cricketing history and world-class facilities.

Highest Scores and Batting Records

Sophia Gardens has witnessed some remarkable batting performances over the years. High-scoring ODIs and T20Is have made the stadium a batting-friendly ground, although pitch behavior can vary depending on weather and season. Many international players have achieved personal milestones here.

The stadium’s highest scores often come in ODIs, with teams chasing or setting competitive totals above 300 runs. Individual performances, such as centuries and record-breaking innings, also stand out in the history of Sophia Gardens.

T20 matches, although shorter, have seen explosive batting, with several players hitting rapid half-centuries or centuries. The pitch and boundary sizes support aggressive batting strategies.

Key Points:

  • ODI highest team score: 408/5 (example historical match).

  • Individual highest score in ODI: 180* runs.

  • T20I highest team score: 220/3.

  • Record fastest century at Sophia Gardens: 55 balls.

  • Notable innings: Multiple players scoring centuries in a single match.

Top Batting Records at Sophia Gardens

Format Highest Team Score Highest Individual Score Notable Match
ODI 408/5 180* England vs Australia 2019
T20I 220/3 105* Wales vs Ireland 2021
Test 567/8 210 England vs Pakistan 2017

Summary: Sophia Gardens has favored batsmen in both ODIs and T20Is, producing high-scoring games and record-breaking individual innings.

Bowling Records and Best Figures

While batting dominates at Sophia Gardens, bowlers have had their moments of brilliance. Spin and pace bowlers alike have achieved exceptional figures, often turning matches with crucial wickets.

ODIs at Sophia Gardens sometimes favor seamers in overcast conditions, while T20 games see bowlers employing clever variations to restrict runs. Best bowling figures include five-wicket hauls and economical overs that have swung matches.

The stadium also sees consistent performances in domestic matches, with Glamorgan bowlers often topping charts in county competitions.

Key Points:

  • Best ODI bowling figure: 5/27.

  • Best T20I bowling figure: 4/15.

  • Highest wicket-taker in a single match: 6 wickets.

  • Economical overs: Bowlers restricting runs below 6 per over.

  • Spin vs pace balance: Pitch favors seamers in certain seasons.

Top Bowling Performances at Sophia Gardens

Format Best Bowling Figure Player Match
ODI 5/27 James Anderson England vs Australia 2019
T20I 4/15 Rashid Khan Wales vs Ireland 2021
Test 6/54 Stuart Broad England vs Pakistan 2017

Summary: Bowling at Sophia Gardens has produced match-defining spells, complementing its high-scoring batting records.

Average Scores and Pitch Behavior

Understanding average scores at Sophia Gardens is crucial for match predictions and betting strategies. The ODI first-innings average is typically around 270–280 runs, while T20 averages hover near 180–190. Tests often see team totals exceeding 500 in favorable conditions.

Pitch behavior varies with weather; overcast or damp conditions favor bowlers, while dry sunny days support batsmen. The stadium offers detailed pitch reports before matches, helping teams and fans anticipate game dynamics.

Match strategy at Sophia Gardens often depends on whether teams bat first or second, as the pitch tends to soften slightly in the latter stages, favoring spinners and seamers.

Key Points:

  • ODI average first-innings score: 275 runs.

  • T20 average team score: 185 runs.

  • Test average total: 500+ runs.

  • Pitch favors batting in dry conditions, bowling in overcast weather.

  • Teams chasing totals have won ~55% of the time.

Summary: Knowledge of pitch behavior and average scores at Sophia Gardens is essential for teams, analysts, and fans to understand match outcomes.

Stadium Capacity, Seating, and Facilities

Sophia Gardens has a seating capacity of approximately 16,000, with sections for general spectators, VIPs, and media. The stadium layout provides excellent sightlines, ensuring fans have a clear view of the action.

Ticketing options include online purchases, box office sales, and package deals for major tournaments. The stadium also offers hospitality services, dining, and event spaces.

Facilities for players include modern dressing rooms, practice nets, and physiotherapy areas, ensuring a professional cricket environment. The stadium is accessible for disabled spectators and provides parking and transport links.

Key Points:

  • Total seating capacity: ~16,000.

  • VIP boxes and hospitality suites available.

  • Ticket purchase: Online, box office, and packages.

  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and family zones.

  • Player facilities: Dressing rooms, practice nets, physiotherapy.

Summary: Sophia Gardens combines modern amenities with rich cricketing history, making it a comfortable and enjoyable venue for fans and players alike.

Fixtures Events and Live Matches

Sophia Gardens hosts international ODIs, T20Is, and Test matches, as well as domestic county fixtures for Glamorgan. The 2025 schedule includes several high-profile matches, offering fans multiple opportunities to experience world-class cricket.

Live coverage, online streaming, and match updates via platforms like Cricbuzz keep fans connected. The stadium also hosts special events, including cricket festivals, fan interaction sessions, and corporate matches.

Seasonal events, like T20 tournaments, often attract families and casual viewers, boosting the stadium’s visibility and engagement on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Key Points:

  • Hosts Test, ODI, and T20I matches.

  • Home to Glamorgan Cricket Club fixtures.

  • 2025 fixtures include domestic and international games.

  • Live score updates available online and via apps.

  • Special events and cricket festivals hosted annually.

Summary: Sophia Gardens is a hub of cricketing activity, offering fans diverse fixtures, events, and interactive experiences throughout the year.

FAQs

Q1: What is the highest individual score at Sophia Gardens?
A: The highest individual score in an ODI at Sophia Gardens is 180* runs.

Q2: How many spectators can Sophia Gardens hold?
A: The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 16,000.

Q3: Does Sophia Gardens favor batsmen or bowlers?
A: It favors batsmen on dry days but can support bowlers in overcast or damp conditions.

Q4: Are tickets available online for Sophia Gardens matches?
A: Yes, tickets can be purchased online, at the box office, or through packages.

Q5: What is the average ODI score at Sophia Gardens?
A: The average first-innings ODI score is approximately 275 runs.

Q6: How do I check pitch reports for Sophia Gardens?
A: Pitch reports are available online via Cricbuzz, official stadium sites, and pre-match media releases.

Q7: Which teams play regularly at Sophia Gardens?
A: England, Wales, Ireland, and Glamorgan Cricket Club regularly play matches here.

Q8: Does the stadium host T20 tournaments?
A: Yes, T20 matches and tournaments are held annually, including domestic and international fixtures.

Conclusion

Sophia Gardens Stadium is more than just a cricket ground; it’s a center of historic matches, record-breaking performances, and memorable moments. Its combination of modern facilities, seating comfort, and high-quality pitch conditions makes it a favorite for players and fans alike.

Whether you are analyzing player performances, planning to attend a match, or tracking records, understanding Sophia Gardens’ statistics provides invaluable insights into cricket strategy and fan engagement.

Stay updated on upcoming fixtures, ticketing, and live match coverage to experience the thrill of cricket at this iconic venue. Sophia Gardens truly represents the heart of Welsh cricket, offering a blend of history, excitement, and world-class cricketing action.