South Africa’s passion for cricket is not a new phenomenon, having made its debut in 1888. South Africa was progressively setting its foot in international cricket, having hosted England for the first time in 1888–89 and earning a lot of experience playing against the larger powers like Australia and England.
However, the international ban enforced by the ICC due to the country’s apartheid policies caused a decline before they made a comeback in 1992. Nonetheless, South Africa is now regarded as one of the world’s most formidable cricket sides.
And this powerful South African team plays at some of the best cricket grounds across their country. Here are the top 5 cricket stadiums in South Africa.
1. Kingsmead Cricket Stadium | Durban
The Kingsmead Cricket Stadium in South Africa staged its first ODI match in December 1992, while the first Test match was played in 1923 between South Africa and England. The stadium is popularly renowned for holding the first match for the South African cricket team after its reinstatement into international cricket.
The stadium plays host in all three forms and has a seating capacity of 25,000 people. The venue is also famous for Yuvraj Singh’s remarkable record of hitting 6 sixes in 6 balls to Stuart Broad in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
2. St. George’s Park | Port Elizabeth
St. George’s Park Cricket Stadium in South Africa is one of the oldest cricket fields and has a seating capacity of 19,000 people.
St. George’s Park in Port Elizabeth is South Africa’s first test match venue. In 1889, South Africa’s St. George’s Cricket Stadium hosted the first-ever test match between South Africa and England.
3. Buffalo Park | East London
Despite being a smaller stadium than other cricket grounds, Buffalo Park is one of the most gorgeous cricket grounds you will ever see. At this venue, Waqar Younis scored a historic hat-trick, while the West Indies Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Carl Hooper put on a record 226-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
In October 2002, South Africa played their first test match at the Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium against Bangladesh. In 1992, the inaugural ODI was played between South Africa and India, with India coming out on top.
Also Read | What is a Hat Trick in Cricket? – Explained
4. Newlands Cricket Ground | Cape Town
Clouds, mountains, and forests surround Newlands Cricket Ground, one of the most picturesque locations, creating an incredible atmosphere. The Newlands Cricket Ground in South Africa can accommodate over 25,000 people.
Newlands became an international cricket stadium over a century ago, hosting the first Test match between England and South Africa in March 1889. In 1992, Newlands hosted the first ODI, with Hansie Cronje taking 5 for 32 to help South Africa defeat India by 6 wickets.
South African cricket fans are pleased that the venue has always been fair to the national team in limited-overs international matches.
5. SuperSport Park | Centurion
The SuperSport Park, arguably South Africa’s premier cricket stadium, has hosted some of the most spectacular games in international cricket.
In December 1992, the stadium hosted its inaugural ODI match. In that game, India defeated South Africa by 4 wickets. South Africa and England played the first test match at this venue in 1995; however, the game ended in a draw.
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