Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot: Pitch Report, Records & Capacity

Cricket in India is more than just a sport-it’s a celebration, a passion, and a way of life. Among the many iconic venues that have witnessed the rise of Indian cricket, the Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot stands out for its modern facilities, thrilling matches, and a pitch that promises high-octane action. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan, a stats enthusiast, or planning to attend a match here, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know-pitch reports, boundary lengths, T20 records, upcoming matches, scorecards, and more.

A Modern Marvel: History and Features of Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot

Opened in 2009 and formerly known as the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is located on the outskirts of Rajkot, Gujarat. With a seating capacity of 28,000, it’s one of the largest and most advanced cricket venues in the region. The stadium is also known as Khandheri Cricket Stadium and is Gujarat’s first solar-powered sports facility, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

Key Features

• Capacity: 28,000 spectators
  
• Location: Rajkot, Gujarat, India
  
• Established: 2009
  
• Floodlights: Yes, suitable for day-night matches
  
• Home Teams: Saurashtra, Indian national team, and previously IPL teams like Gujarat Lions
  
• Facilities: Modern dressing rooms, media center, practice nets, and a spacious spectator area
  

The stadium is part of a larger sports complex, offering facilities for various sports, which makes it a hub for athletic excellence in the region.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot Pitch Report

The Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot pitch report is a hot topic before every match. The surface here is renowned for being flat and hard, making it a paradise for batsmen. Consistent bounce and good pace mean that stroke makers can play their shots freely, leading to high-scoring encounters.

Pitch Characteristics

• Type: Batting-friendly
  
• Bounce: Consistent, aiding aggressive stroke play
  
• Pace: Good, especially early in the match
  
• Spin: Spinners can come into play as the game progresses, with some turn and bounce available
  
• Toss Factor: Teams winning the toss generally prefer to bat first, as chasing becomes trickier under lights
  

Example: In the last T20I, India posted a massive 228/5 against Sri Lanka, with Suryakumar Yadav smashing an unbeaten 112 off just 51 balls, showcasing how rewarding the pitch can be for batters.

Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot Boundary Length

Understanding the niranjan shah stadium, rajkot boundary length is crucial for both players and fans. The ground is unique in its dimensions, offering both short and long boundaries that test the skill of batsmen and bowlers alike.

Boundary Measurements

• Shortest boundary: 28 meters (leg side), making it a favorite for big hitters.
  
• Longest boundary: Up to 50 meters (straight), challenging even for the most powerful batsmen.
  
• Field Size: Main ground is about 90 meters; secondary practice ground is 70 meters. 

These varied lengths create a balanced contest between bat and ball, with batsmen targeting the shorter sides and bowlers using the longer boundaries to their advantage.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Capacity and Facilities

The niranjan shah stadium capacity is 28,000, making it one of the largest cricket venues in Gujarat. The stadium boasts world-class amenities, including:

• Comfortable seating with clear sightlines
  
• Multiple entry and exit points for smooth crowd movement
  
• A media box inspired by Lord’s Cricket Ground, London
  
• Solar power generation, making it eco-friendly
  

Fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere, especially during marquee matches, with excellent facilities for both players and spectators.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot T20 Records

The stadium has quickly built a reputation for hosting memorable T20 matches. Here’s a look at the niranjan shah stadium rajkot t20 records and some standout performances:

Overall T20I Stats

Individual Records

• Highest Individual Score: Suryakumar Yadav, 112* (51 balls) vs Sri Lanka
  
• Best Bowling Figures: Avesh Khan, 4/18 vs South Africa
  
• Most Sixes in a Match: Suryakumar Yadav (9 sixes in his 112*)
  

Other Notable Stats

• Total Sixes: 65
  
• Total Fours: 160
  
• Total 50s: 5
  
• Total 100s: 2
  

These numbers highlight why the stadium is a favorite for fans looking for high-scoring thrillers and individual brilliance.

Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot T20 Scorecard Highlights

If you’re searching for a niranjan shah stadium, rajkot t20 scorecard from recent matches, here’s a snapshot of one of the most exciting games:

India vs Sri Lanka, 2023

1. India: 228/5 (20 overs)
   
   • Suryakumar Yadav: 112* (51 balls)
     
   • Rahul Tripathi: 35 (16 balls)
     
   • Axar Patel: 21 (9 balls)
     
2. Sri Lanka: 137 all out (16.4 overs)
   
   • Top scorer: Kusal Mendis, 23 (15 balls)
     
   • Best Indian bowler: Arshdeep Singh, 3 wickets
     

India won by 91 runs, and the match demonstrated the stadium’s reputation for high totals and dramatic finishes.

Rajkot Cricket Stadium Records Across Formats

The rajkot cricket stadium records are impressive across all formats-T20, ODI, and Test cricket.

T20I Records

• Highest Total: 228/5 (India vs Sri Lanka)
  
• Lowest Total: 87/10 (South Africa vs India)
  
• Highest Successful Chase: 202/4 (India vs Australia)
  

ODI Records

• Highest Total: 435 (team and details vary by match)
  
• Lowest Total: 131
  
• Average 1st Innings Score: 332
  

Test Records

• Highest Total: 649
  
• Lowest Total: 122
  
• Average 1st Innings Score: 543
  

These stats show that the stadium is not just a T20 paradise but also a venue where ODI and Test cricket have produced some remarkable moments.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Upcoming Matches

Cricket fans are always eager to know about niranjan shah stadium upcoming matches. The venue continues to be a regular host for both domestic and international fixtures.

Upcoming Fixtures

• India vs England, 3rd T20: 25 January 2025, 7 PM IST
  

The stadium also hosts IPL matches, women’s internationals, and domestic tournaments, ensuring a packed calendar for cricket lovers in Rajkot.

Why Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot Is Special

Unique Aspects

• Solar-powered: First in Gujarat, setting a benchmark for sustainability in sports venues.
  
• Versatility: Hosts international, IPL, and domestic matches, as well as women’s cricket.
  
• Fan Experience: Modern amenities, easy accessibility, and a vibrant atmosphere.
  

Memorable Matches

• Suryakumar Yadav’s blistering century against Sri Lanka
  
• India’s successful 202-run chase against Australia
  
• South Africa’s dramatic collapse for 87 runs
  

Quick Facts at a Glance

Tips for Fans Visiting Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot

• Arrive Early: With a capacity crowd, it’s best to reach the stadium well in advance for a hassle-free experience.
  
• Check the Weather: Rajkot can get hot, so carry caps, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
  
• Explore the Complex: The sports complex offers more than just cricket-check out other facilities if you have time.
  
• Stay Updated: Follow official channels for last-minute updates on matches and entry protocols.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rajkot a batting pitch?

Yes, Rajkot is widely recognized as a batting-friendly pitch. The surface at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is flat and offers consistent bounce, making it ideal for stroke play. Batters generally enjoy playing here, especially in the early stages of the game, while bowlers, particularly spinners, tend to come into play as the match progresses.

What is the highest score in Rajkot stadium T20?

The highest T20 score at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is 228/5, achieved by India against Sri Lanka in 2023. This high total reflects the ground’s reputation for big scores and exciting matches.

Who took most wickets in Rajkot stadium?

In Test cricket at Rajkot, Ravichandran Ashwin holds the record for the most wickets, with a total of 9 wickets in a single match. In T20 internationals, Avesh Khan has the best bowling figures at the stadium, taking 4 wickets for 18 runs against South Africa in 2022.

Which IPL team home ground is Rajkot stadium?

Rajkot stadium, now known as Niranjan Shah Stadium, served as the home ground for the Gujarat Lions during their stint in the Indian Premier League.

What is the average first innings score at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot?

The average first innings score in T20 internationals at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is 189, indicating a high-scoring venue where teams batting first often aim for totals around 200.

How many people can Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot accommodate?

Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot has a seating capacity of 28,000 spectators, with plans underway to expand it further to accommodate up to 40,000 fans in the future.

What is the boundary length at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot?

The boundary lengths at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot vary, with the shortest being around 28 meters (leg side) and the longest stretching up to 50 meters (straight), offering both batsmen and bowlers unique challenges.

What are some notable T20 records at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot?

Notable T20 records at the stadium include Suryakumar Yadav’s highest individual score of 112* (51 balls) and India’s highest successful run chase of 202/4 against Australia in 2013.

What is the pitch report for upcoming matches at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot?

The pitch for upcoming matches at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is expected to remain batting-friendly, with consistent bounce and pace early on. Spinners may find assistance as the game progresses, making for an exciting contest between bat and ball.

Which famous players have excelled at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot?

Several renowned cricketers have excelled at this venue, including Suryakumar Yadav, who scored a memorable T20I century, and Ravichandran Ashwin, who has dominated with the ball in Test matches. The stadium has also seen stellar performances from Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara in Tests.

Conclusion

The Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot is more than just a cricket ground-it’s where history is made, records are broken, and fans experience the true spirit of the game. With its batter-friendly pitch, unique boundary lengths, and a track record of hosting thrilling matches, it’s a must-visit destination for any cricket lover in India.

Whether you’re tracking the latest niranjan shah stadium rajkot pitch report, analyzing T20 records, or planning to catch an upcoming match, this stadium offers an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness world-class cricket in one of India’s most modern and vibrant venues.

Ready to experience the action? Book your tickets for the next match at Niranjan Shah Stadium Rajkot and be a part of cricketing history!