[PICTURES] What is the future of Sharjah Stadium?

[MenInG]

Spent some time there yesterday and I am saddened to say the state of this iconic stadium.

From the state of the grass which has been destroyed in places due to concerts etc and also from the dilapidated and outdated facilities, one feels that not enough has been invested in the upkeep.

The ceiling fans remind you of some '50s movie and the only new thing is a brand new "Chairman's box" which is showcased to all as the main development in this stadium.

With no choice to expand the grounds, the only option is to build new higher stands but obvious that the money and investment is not there.

What a far-cry from the heady days of Imran/Wasim/Waqar/Saeed Anwar/Miandad playing here and entertaining us.

And despite this the games will have more crowds than Dubai!

Shouldnt the PSL organization help in this sites restoration and upkeep? Yes, there has been some improvement such as new seats but the general upkeep showed me a lack of funds which doesnt seem to be a problem at DSC.

 

[Mamoon]

Cricket in the UAE is dead. Sharjah was one of the best places to play cricket in the 80's, 90's and early 2000's, but those days are long gone.

Can't wait to get out of it for good. Tired of playing home matches there, but it is the only practical alternative to Pakistan.

 

[SL_Fan]

Sharjah still holds the record of hosting the most number of ODIs I think. Sad to hear that it's in such a state.

 

[JaDed]

As an Indian except 1998, there have only been tainted memories of this ground,not a fan but the ground from ur pics look pretty good but guess facilities arentg that great.

 

[samiakh]

Miles ahead compared to most grounds in Pakistan. Contrary to what Mamoon says at a club level facilities is the UAE significantly superior to what you get in Pak. Ever visited the UBL or NBP grounds in Karachi where FC matches are played? They are horrible!

 

[Varun]

If the pictures above are anything to go by, it actually looks quite neat, if a little basic.

 

[jazbati]

The stadium is fine. We don't have to over exaggerate. It gives you the feeling of past which is great. Love watching Test matches here.

 

[MenInG]

The stadium is fine. We don't have to over exaggerate. It gives you the feeling of past which is great. Love watching Test matches here.

Errmmm

No its not.

Its badly in a state of repairs. I had a long chat with one of the senior people there and its in danger of being wiped out by commercial interests who are no longer interested in cricket

 

[MenInG]

If the pictures above are anything to go by, it actually looks quite neat, if a little basic.

It needs a facelift and addition to capacity.

 

[FearlessRoar]

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates has made history in ODI cricket by becoming the first venue to host 250 matches. This milestone was achieved during the first ODI between Afghanistan and South Africa.

Notably, the stadium's first ODI was held in 1984, 13 years after cricket's inaugural ODI match in 1971. Established in 1982, Sharjah Cricket Stadium has witnessed numerous thrilling and crucial matches over its 42-year history.

 

[sweep_shot]

When I was a young kid, I always looked forward to these Sharjah games (used to be regular tri-series in UAE).