Zayed Cricket Stadium is one of the top-notch grounds for cricket fanatics in Abu Dhabi. This world-class venue has hosted unforgettable matches, drawing international attention. From its fair pitch to the lush grassy ground, this cricket stadium suits both fielders and batsmen.
Let’s explore everything that makes Zayed Cricket Stadium a cornerstone of UAE’s cricket culture. Read on to uncover its unique features, historic moments and why it’s a must-visit for cricket lovers worldwide.
Overview
Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium is one of the world’s finest cricket grounds, built in 2004 at a cost of $22 million. The cricket venue is located about 30 minutes from the city centre in a remote area.
Furthermore, the ground features two large stands at North End and Pavilion End. The stadium can hold up to 20,000 spectators with grass banking, providing ample space for fans. However, it lacks shade during daylight hours, which may be a drawback for some visitors.
Location
Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Zayed Cricket Stadium – History
One of the most prestigious cricket stadiums in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Stadium boasts a rich history of successful matches. Its first notable game was the 2004 Intercontinental Cup match between Scotland and Kenya.
The Zayed Cricket Stadium also hosted its first international cricket match in 2006. Afterwards, in 2021, the stadium was also a dedicated venue for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Additionally, the cricket ground became the home of Pakistan International Cricket in 2010.
In 2019, PSL officially came to Abu Dhabi Stadium and had four matches. Later on, the PSL 6 in 2021 had its finale on this pitch. Also, the Indian Premier League played its first games on this ground in 2014.
Timeline of Cricket Matches
The match timeline shows the series hosted by Abu Dhabi Cricket Stadium. The table starts from the first match ever to the most recent one.
| Year | Date | Series | Match |
| 2004 | November 17 – 19 | ICC Intercontinental Cup | Scotland vs Kenya |
| 2006 | April 18 | ODI | India vs Pakistan |
| 2010 | February 10 | T20 | Afghanistan vs Scotland |
| 2010 | November 20 – 24 | Test | South Africa vs Pakistan |
| 2013 | December 09 | YODI | England U19 vs Pakistan U19 |
| 2021 | March 10 – 14 | Test | Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe |
| 2022 | September 18 | WT20I | UAE Women vs Thailand Women |
| 2023 | March 20 | YODI | Bangladesh U19 vs Srilanka U19 |
| 2024 | May 07 | WT20I | Srilanka Women vs Scottland Women |
| 2024 | September 29 | T20I | Ireland vs South Africa |
| 2024 | October 07 | ODI | Ireland vs South Africa |
Exciting Facts About Zayed Cricket Stadium
Let’s have a look at this stadium’s exciting facts and record-breaking matches.
1. Organised Record Breaking PSL Event
Pakistan Super League Season 6 had a finale at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. During the Islamabad United versus Peshawar Zalmi match, the stadium witnessed a record-breaking victory with the most runs scored.
2. Hosted First Ever Major ICC World Event
Men’s ICC T20 World Cup 2021 was also organised in this Abu Dhabi stadium, marking the first significant ICC World event. The World Cup featured 14 games at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, including a thrilling semi-final match, played between England and New Zealand.
3. Number of Matches Held
Sheikh Zayed Stadium hosted the most thrilling cricket matches in the world, whether it be an international or national series. The stadium witnessed:
- 55 ODI matches
- 68 T20 matches
- 37 IPL matches
- 24 PSL matches
4. Nursery Grounds
The stadium complex includes Nursery 1 (Tolerance Oval) and Nursery 2 (Mohan’s Oval). These grounds were used for a Twenty20 International between the UAE and Australia in 2018.
Moreover, in September 2019, the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier tournament chose the Tolerance Oval to host cricket matches.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium – Facilities
Near the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, you can find Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub, a multipurpose training hub. This multipurpose cricket training hub in Abu Dhabi features the following:
- Tennis courts
- Football fields
- Swimming pool
- Gymnasium
- Restaurant
- Ample parking
- Top-level security
- Nursery Grounds 1 and 2
All these facilities make it a top destination for sports enthusiasts and professionals.
FAQs
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi has a capacity of 20,000 people.
The most prestigious cricket ground, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, is in Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium generally favors batsmen with its even pace and bounce. However, bowlers can find lateral movement, especially in the second half and spinners benefit from the dry pitch.
Besides Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, there are several other stadiums in the UAE, such as:
– Dubai International Cricket Stadium | Dubai
– Sharjah Cricket Stadium | Sharjah
– ICC Academy | Dubai
– Tolerance Oval | Abu Dhabi
– Sevens Stadium | Dubai
Despite being comparatively new, Sheikh Zayed or Abu Dhabi Cricket Stadium, is significant in cricket history. Many national and international cricketers have played numerous record-breaking matches in this stadium.
Besides, you can also explore these top sports clubs in Dubai to embrace an active lifestyle. For more UAE updates, check out the Property Finder blog.
