Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium - or the HPCA Stadium as it’s known for commonly - in Dharamshala, could be described as one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in India. 

A stunning backdrop of the snow-topped tips of the Himalayas means that the HPCA Stadium has drawn comparisons to the likes of the Adelaide Oval and Newlands. 

Sitting at an altitude of approximately 1,457 metres above sea level means that the Dharamshala cricket ground is one of the highest in the world. 

The high altitude means that it could be said that big hitting is easier here. Australian star Adam Gilchrist hit the first IPL century at the HPCA Stadium in 2011 in a game against RCB. 

The stadium opened in 2003 and hosted its first Test match in 2017. Before that it had hosted ODIs and T20Is. While it is not a regular fixture on the IPL schedule, Punjab Kings have used it as an IPL venue occasionally.

Read on for more grounds stats plus the HPCA Stadium Pitch Report to give you all the details you need to know. 

HPCA Stadium Pitch Report

According to some media, the stadium has a hybrid pitch, installed in 2024. The outfield has winter rye grass scattered around, which helps to prevent the grass from dying in the harsh Dharamshala winters. 

The pitch report also needs to mention its good bounce and lateral movement due to winds, which can be good news for fast bowlers. 

It is therefore not a surprise to see fast bowlers have some of the lowest averages per wicket here in T20s, along with orthodox bowlers. 

Data from Cricmetric for the Stadium shows the ground had an average T20 first innings score of around 180 during the 2024 season. 

It is tough to chase totals here. Statistics demonstrate the team batting first has won 75% of matches at the moment, so it can be a big toss to win at Dharamshala. 

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