Bigger is better
One of the world's most revered grounds, Adelaide Oval still clings to its old-world charm
Aaron Owen
04-Nov-2014
The newly developed Adelaide Oval: just as cosy as it was previously • Getty Images
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, with a population of over one million people, is known as the "City of Churches" in the "Festival State". The city is ringed by vast parklands that, in summer, are host to many of Adelaide's suburban cricket matches. Just north of Torrens Lake lies Adelaide Oval, the state's premier cricket venue and one of the world's most revered grounds.
The venue
Now capable of accommodating more than 50,000 spectators, following the recent AUD$500 million redevelopment, the stadium combines its modern facelift with an old-world charm. The northern grassy mound, edged by giant fig trees, still makes for mostly shaded seating, and there's also the manually operated Edwardian-era scoreboard. The ground held its first Test in 1884 (and has hosted 72 till date), and the first of 77 ODIs (as at the time of writing) in 1975.
Now capable of accommodating more than 50,000 spectators, following the recent AUD$500 million redevelopment, the stadium combines its modern facelift with an old-world charm. The northern grassy mound, edged by giant fig trees, still makes for mostly shaded seating, and there's also the manually operated Edwardian-era scoreboard. The ground held its first Test in 1884 (and has hosted 72 till date), and the first of 77 ODIs (as at the time of writing) in 1975.
Great matches
England v Sri Lanka, 8th ODI, Carlton & United Series, 1999
Despite the possible distraction and frayed nerves caused by umpire Ross Emerson's no-balling of Murali - prompting Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga to attempt to lead a team walk-off, which was thwarted only after the team management called the board back in Colombo for directions - Sri Lanka stayed strong and proceeded to a one-wicket victory. Hick's undefeated century in England's 302 for 3 was not enough to secure a win as Sri Lanka reached 303 for 9 with two balls remaining. Fittingly, Murali, the centre of controversy, hit the winning runs.
England v Sri Lanka, 8th ODI, Carlton & United Series, 1999
Despite the possible distraction and frayed nerves caused by umpire Ross Emerson's no-balling of Murali - prompting Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga to attempt to lead a team walk-off, which was thwarted only after the team management called the board back in Colombo for directions - Sri Lanka stayed strong and proceeded to a one-wicket victory. Hick's undefeated century in England's 302 for 3 was not enough to secure a win as Sri Lanka reached 303 for 9 with two balls remaining. Fittingly, Murali, the centre of controversy, hit the winning runs.
India v Zimbabwe, 8th ODI, VB Series, 2004
It was VVS Laxman's day. Starting his innings from the team position of 4 for 3, he scored 131 as India went on to post 280 for 7. After a shaky start, Zimbabwe fought back to a winnable position deep in the game. However, a vital late-innings catch by Laxman ensured India held on to win by three runs.
It was VVS Laxman's day. Starting his innings from the team position of 4 for 3, he scored 131 as India went on to post 280 for 7. After a shaky start, Zimbabwe fought back to a winnable position deep in the game. However, a vital late-innings catch by Laxman ensured India held on to win by three runs.
Top performers in ODIs
Most runs Michael Clarke 618 at 56.18 | Top score Brian Lara 156 v Pakistan
Most wickets Brett Lee 23 | Best bowling Carl Rackeman 5 for 16 v Pakistan
Most runs Michael Clarke 618 at 56.18 | Top score Brian Lara 156 v Pakistan
Most wickets Brett Lee 23 | Best bowling Carl Rackeman 5 for 16 v Pakistan
Major players
George Giffen | Joe Darling | Clem Hill | Vic Richardson | Don Bradman | Ian Chappell | Greg Chappell | Greg Blewett | Darren Lehmann | Jason Gillespie
George Giffen | Joe Darling | Clem Hill | Vic Richardson | Don Bradman | Ian Chappell | Greg Chappell | Greg Blewett | Darren Lehmann | Jason Gillespie
Home team
The South Australian Cricket Association (the SACA) was formed in 1871 and is the body responsible for Adelaide Oval during cricket season. It plays men's cricket as Southern Redbacks in domestic first-class and 50-over competitions, and as Adelaide Strikers in T20 cricket (the Big Bash League). In women's cricket (50 and 20-over competitions), the SACA is represented by Southern Scorpions.
The South Australian Cricket Association (the SACA) was formed in 1871 and is the body responsible for Adelaide Oval during cricket season. It plays men's cricket as Southern Redbacks in domestic first-class and 50-over competitions, and as Adelaide Strikers in T20 cricket (the Big Bash League). In women's cricket (50 and 20-over competitions), the SACA is represented by Southern Scorpions.