This medium sized ground features a flat batting pitch that benefits slow bowlers over pacers in the game. Furthermore, spinners outnumber pacers.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the history, facilities, events, and other important aspects of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Table of Contents
Records and Statistics
| First | Last | |
| Test | India v New Zealand – Nov 12-16, 2010 | India v West Indies – Oct 12-14, 2018 |
| ODI | India v South Africa – Nov 16, 2005 | India v New Zealand – Jan 18, 2023 |
| T20I | India v Australia – Oct 13, 2017 | India v Australia – Sep 25, 2022 |
Pitch
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Telangana serves as the home ground of Sunrisers Hyderabad and Hyderabad Cricket Association
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium’s pitch is well-regarded as an excellent batting surface, due to the ball coming off bat easily and having relatively short boundaries that allow batsmen to hit hard and score many runs.
This venue is also ideal for bowlers, as its surface tends to provide excellent stroke-play early on while slowing down in later innings and supporting spin bowling. Furthermore, some fantastic wickets have come off this pitch in recent games that went for runs.
Rajiv Gandhi Stadium will feature a medium-paced pitch in 2023 that is ideal for batting. The surface should be relatively dry with only minimal grass covering it – making it extremely difficult for balls to become trapped and difficult for batted balls to come off easily.
Also Read: Barabati Stadium – A Treasure Trove of Cricket History and Legacy
Spectators
Cricket stadiums and pitches that host matches around the world are an invaluable attraction, drawing countless spectators with each game that takes place there. They provide spectators with an exceptional live experience.
Stadia are known for hosting high-scoring matches, and are equipped with emergency evacuation systems that enable rapid exit from them in accordance with international security guidelines.
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad stands out among India’s premier cricket stadiums as an exceptional arena to experience cricket matches. Opened in 2004, this ground can seat up to 55,000 spectators.
This stadium, established by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and owned by Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), was opened by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and has become an iconic venue in cricket history, witnessing such key moments as Sachin Tendulkar scoring his 45th ODI century here.
Not only did this stadium host matches of IPL 2023, it has also hosted other high-profile international matches of note. Young Indian opener Shubman Gill single-handedly held New Zealand bowlers back from scoring their maiden double century against India during an ODI series played here in January 2023.
Facilities at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
The stadium boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for players and spectators. Some of the key facilities at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium include:
- Dressing rooms
The stadium has two separate dressing rooms for players and officials, equipped with modern facilities like lockers, showers, and restrooms.
- Media center
The media center is equipped with modern facilities like Wi-Fi, televisions, and press rooms.
- VIP stands
The stadium has two VIP stands, each with a seating capacity of 500 spectators.
- Corporate boxes
There are 16 air-conditioned corporate boxes with a seating capacity of 25 each.
- Concessions
The stadium has several concession stands that offer a variety of food and beverage options.
Events
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium has hosted numerous international cricket matches, including test matches, one-day internationals, and Twenty20 internationals. The stadium has also hosted matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the Sunrisers Hyderabad being the home team.
Apart from cricket, the stadium has also hosted other sports events like the Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League, and the Premier Badminton League. In addition, the stadium has hosted concerts and other cultural events, with renowned artists like Bryan Adams, Shakira, and Roger Waters performing at the venue.
Also Read: Discover the Fascinating History of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Kochi in India
Getting to Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium is located in Uppal, Hyderabad, and is easily accessible by road and public transport. The stadium is located around 20 km from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and around 10 km from the Secunderabad Railway Station. Local buses and taxis are available for transportation to and from the stadium.
Parking
Hyderabad’s traffic police wing has developed an exhaustive plan to manage general traffic and spectators at seven IPL matches scheduled to take place at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal in 2023. On match days, over 215 personnel would be deployed to ensure proper regulation of this event.
Finding the ideal route to and from the stadium can be tricky, so using Moovit can help you quickly identify which option offers the lowest fares – be it bus, rail or taxi services.
Use a parking app. There are a variety of apps, such as Parkmobile, that provide easy ways for saving money and finding parking nearby. This could save you both time and money!
Additionally, there are other parking options in and around the stadium, some based on first come, first served. Therefore it’s wise to plan and prepare.
Popular options for parking include IALA Parking, Penguine Textile Parking and four NGRI Gate Nos 1 through 3.
These parking locations can be utilized by any vehicle that meets the required registration and size restrictions, and are conveniently situated nearby IALA Shopping Mall, NGRI Gate No. 1, and large office buildings.
Finding the ideal parking option requires consulting a map and looking out for signs that say, “parking here.” Once you find one suitable spot, parking will begin immediately; once ready to depart head directly over to Stadium Metro station for fast access back into the venue.
Food
Attractions at this popular cricket ground include several matches from the Indian Premier League as well as many amenities for fans to enjoy such as a bar, restrooms, and ticketing office.
Visitors to the stadium may purchase food and beverage, however certain items are prohibited such as coins, mobile phones, cameras, earphones and data cables.
Near the stadium you will find many delicious dining and beverage options, such as Caffe Kazuka, Chef’s Patio and Momos Point.
At IPL games, the security officials at the stadium may be strict with regard to what items can be brought into the stadium. Therefore, it is wise to leave any unnecessary items at home and only bring what you require; this will ensure both your safety and that of other players in attendance.
FAQs
Q: Where is the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium located?
A: The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium is located in Uppal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Q: What is the seating capacity of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium?
A: The seating capacity of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium is approximately 55,000.
Q: What is the size of the ground at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium?
A: The ground at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium measures 175 meters from North to South and 150 meters from East to West.
Q: How do I book tickets for events at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium?
A: You can book tickets for events at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium through various online ticketing platforms or at the stadium box office.
Q: Is there a dress code to follow when visiting the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium?
A: There is no specific dress code to follow when visiting the stadium, but it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for the weather.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium?
A: The best time of year to visit the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium is during the Indian cricket season, which typically runs from October to April.