Barsapara Stadium, officially known as Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium, is a significant landmark in Indian cricket. Located in Barsapara, Guwahati, Assam, this stadium is the heart of cricket in Northeast India. Managed by the Assam Cricket Association, it’s a local venue and a gateway for cricket fans from nearby states. With a seating capacity of 40,000, extendable up to 55,000, Barsapara Stadium has earned its status as the largest sports stadium in Northeast India. It proudly serves as the home ground for the Assam cricket team and has hosted numerous national and international matches, making it an essential venue for the sport.
Inaugurated by former Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in 2017, Barsapara Stadium became India’s 49th international cricket venue. Its journey began with the first international T20 match between India and Australia, which Australia won. Barsapara also made headlines in 2023 when it became a home ground for the Rajasthan Royals during the IPL, bringing top-tier cricket closer to Northeast India and creating a memorable experience for fans.
Barsapara Stadium Overview
| Also knows as | Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium, Assam Cricket Association Stadium |
| Established | 2012 |
| Capacity | 40000 |
| End Names | Media End, Pavilion End |
| Flood Lights | Yes, 2017 |
| Home Teams | Assam |
| Current Local Time | 19:21, Wed Dec 25, 2024 |
The stadium started in 2006, with the foundation stone laid as early as 2004. The Assam government allocated 59 bighas of land for the project, transforming a former dumping ground into a premier sports venue. Barsapara Stadium is unique not only for its size but also for its features. It has steeply rising galleries, covered seating, indoor practice facilities, and modern amenities like a gym and a media center. The stadium has floodlights for day-night matches, adding to its appeal for players and fans.
Barsapara Stadium’s contribution to cricket goes beyond just hosting matches. It represents a cultural and sporting boost to the Northeast region. This introduction highlights its importance and sets the stage for exploring the stadium’s history, records, and the unique atmosphere it brings to the cricketing world.
Where is Barsapara Stadium?
Barsapara Stadium, officially named Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium, is located in the Barsapara area of Guwahati, Assam. This stadium is uniquely positioned in Northeast India as one of the region’s main sporting venues. Guwahati, a bustling city known as the “Gateway to the Northeast,” provides easy access for fans across nearby states, making the stadium a central spot for cricket.
Barsapara Cricket Stadium Address:-
The Barsapara Cricket Stadium
Barsapara, Guwahati, Assam 781018,
India Phone: +91361249030
For residents, Barsapara Stadium isn’t just a venue; it’s a landmark. Fans from Assam and neighboring states eagerly travel here to watch cricket, as it’s the only stadium of size and capacity in Northeast India. Its location in Barsapara is well-connected, and fans find it convenient due to the availability of public transport and accommodations nearby. With Guwahati’s scenic backdrop and enthusiastic fans’ energy, Barsapara Stadium offers a vibrant setting for cricket matches.
Barsapara Stadium History and Milestones
Barsapara Stadium’s journey began in the early 2000s when the foundation stone was laid by Assam’s then-Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi in 2004. Initially, this area was just a large dumping ground. However, with government support and the Assam Cricket Association’s commitment, the site was transformed into a modern sports facility. Construction officially began in 2006, and by 2012, the stadium was ready to host its first domestic matches. This development marked a turning point for cricket in Assam and Northeast India, providing a professional setting for local players.
In 2017, Barsapara Stadium was officially inaugurated by Sarbananda Sonowal, Assam’s Chief Minister at the time. It hosted its first international T20 match between India and Australia, with Australia emerging victorious. Since then, the stadium has hosted several national and international events. In 2023, the stadium became a secondary home ground for the Rajasthan Royals during the Indian Premier League (IPL). This event attracted thousands of cricket fans and showcased Northeast India’s growing interest in cricket.
What is the seating capacity of Barsapara Stadium?
Barsapara Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in India, with a seating capacity of 40,000. This capacity can be expanded to 55,000 if required, making it suitable for hosting significant cricket events.
The seating arrangement is carefully designed to give fans a clear view of the pitch from every angle, enhancing their match experience. The seats are comfortable, with enough space to ensure fans enjoy the game without feeling cramped.
The design includes steeply rising galleries, an unusual feature for stadiums of this size, which helps accommodate large audiences while providing a great view. The seating capacity and design make Barsapara Stadium an ideal venue for big matches, allowing thousands of fans to experience cricket live.
What are the Reviews of Barsapara Stadium?
Barsapara Stadium has earned glowing reviews from fans for its world-class facilities and vibrant atmosphere. Spectators frequently praise the stadium’s well-maintained infrastructure, including comfortable seating arrangements that offer excellent views from every angle. The lush green outfield and top-notch pitch conditions have made it a favorite among players and fans alike.
Fans also appreciate the efficient crowd management and the availability of ample parking spaces, which make their match-day experience hassle-free. The modern amenities, such as clean restrooms, accessible pathways, and diverse food options, enhance the stadium’s appeal.
The scenic location in Guwahati adds to the charm, with the surrounding beauty offering a unique experience for visitors. The enthusiastic local crowd creates an electrifying atmosphere, transforming every match into an unforgettable spectacle. Barsapara Stadium continues to receive widespread admiration for its blend of modernity, accessibility, and cricketing excellence.
Complete Guide to Ticket Booking, Parking, and Regulations at Barsapara Stadium
The Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati offers convenient ticket booking through online platforms like BookMyShow and physical collection options. Attendees are encouraged to reserve parking passes and arrive early to avoid last-minute hassles. Strict regulations ensure safety, with prohibited items and behavior guidelines in place. Plan ahead for a seamless experience.
1. Ticket Booking for Barsapara Stadium
Online Ticket Purchase: Booking tickets for events at Barsapara Stadium can be conveniently done online through platforms like BookMyShow. To book tickets, users need to register by providing their name, mobile number, and email ID. After registration, they can select the event and complete the purchase process easily. It is advisable to book tickets in advance due to high demand during popular matches.
Physical Ticket Collection: For those who opt for online booking, it is crucial to note that physical tickets may still be required for entry. Attendees should arrive early on match days to avoid long queues at ticket collection counters, as there might be limited windows available for online ticket holders
2. Parking Facilities
Parking Passes – Parking at Barsapara Stadium is limited and must be reserved in advance. Attendees are encouraged to purchase parking passes ahead of time to secure a spot close to the venue. On match days, parking will not be available for purchase
Arrival Recommendations – To ensure a smooth experience, it is recommended that attendees arrive early on match days. This allows ample time for parking and navigating through security checks before the event starts. Parking lots typically open several hours before the match begins, and arriving early can help avoid last-minute rushes.
3. Venue Regulations
(a) Items Allowed Inside – At Barsapara Stadium attendees are permitted to bring only certain items into the venue. The following are typically allowed:
- Mobile phones
- Small purses or bags (subject to size restrictions)
- Infant care items such as baby formula and diapers
- Musical instruments, provided they pass security screening
These regulations are designed to enhance the safety and comfort of all attendees.
(b) Prohibited Items – To maintain a safe environment, several items are strictly prohibited within Barsapara Stadium:
- Weapons or dangerous items, including firearms and explosives
- Commercial photography equipment
- Alcohol not purchased inside the venue
- Glass containers or hard plastic bottles
- Bags larger than specified dimensions (usually 30x30x30 cm)
- Any form of illegal substances
Attendees should ensure they do not carry any of these prohibited items to avoid denial of entry.
4. Behavior Expectations
Conduct Guidelines – Barsapara Stadium enforces strict guidelines regarding attendee behavior. The following actions are prohibited:
- Engaging in gambling or betting activities
- Obstructing walkways or entrances
- Using offensive language or gestures
- Smoking or vaping inside the venue
- Standing on seats or damaging property
These rules help create a respectful atmosphere for all spectators.
5. Additional Considerations
Accessibility Options – For attendees with disabilities, it is advisable to check in advance regarding accessible parking and seating options. The stadium aims to accommodate all guests, ensuring everyone can enjoy the event comfortably
Family-Friendly Policies – Families attending events at Barsapara Stadium can bring necessary items for young children, such as baby formula and diapers. However, it is essential to adhere to size restrictions for bags and ensure that all items comply with venue regulations
Attending an event at Barsapara Stadium requires careful planning regarding ticket booking, parking arrangements, and understanding venue regulations. By following these guidelines and preparing in advance, attendees can enhance their experience and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of live sports events in Guwahati.
Barsapara Stadium Facilities
Barsapara Stadium has state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the experience for players and fans. These amenities are designed to provide comfort and convenience, making it one of India’s most modern cricket venues.
The stadium has an indoor location for players to warm up and practice before and during matches. This facility ensures that players have access to quality training spaces. A well-equipped gym and a swimming pool are available for players to maintain their fitness and recover after games. This facility reflects the stadium’s high standards for player comfort and readiness like Nassau County Cricket Stadium.
The ground maintenance team uses an advanced water-sprinkling system to keep the pitch in excellent condition. This facility operates around the clock, ensuring the pitch is always ready for high-quality cricket. The players’ pavilion offers comfortable seating, rest areas, and locker rooms, allowing players to focus on their performance.
Facilities Available at Barsapara Stadium
| Facility | Description |
| Covered Seating | Protects fans from sun and rain |
| Indoor Practice Wicket | Indoor space for player practice |
| Gym | Fitness facility for players |
| Swimming Pool | It helps players relax and recover |
| Water Sprinkling System | Ensures optimal pitch condition |
| Media Center | Fully equipped for journalists |
| Players’ Pavilion | Comfortable area with locker rooms |
These facilities make Barsapara Stadium a modern venue that meets international standards and enhances the experience for players, fans, and media.
Barsapara Stadium Floodlights and Time Zone
Barsapara Stadium has floodlights, allowing it to host day-night matches, especially popular for T20 and ODI formats. The floodlights are strategically positioned to illuminate the field evenly, giving players clear visibility during night games. This feature is essential for accommodating fans who enjoy watching games in the evening after work or school, making cricket accessible to more people.
Located in the Indian Standard Time Zone (UTC +05:30), Barsapara Stadium aligns with the local time preferences of Indian audiences. Matches are scheduled to suit local and international viewership, with timings allowing fans to watch games in the evening. The stadium’s ability to host matches anytime enhances its versatility and appeal as a top venue.
Barsapara Stadium Boundary Length
Barsapara Stadium’s boundary lengths are slightly shorter on the sides, which adds to the excitement for batsmen. The side boundaries range from 60 to 66 meters, while the straight boundary measures 74 meters. Square boundaries fall between 67 to 74 meters, allowing batsmen a range of shot options. These dimensions have contributed to the stadium’s reputation as a high-scoring venue, as players can confidently aim for boundaries.
The balanced boundary lengths also allow bowlers to contain batsmen if they maintain tight lines and lengths. Although it’s primarily a batting-friendly pitch, disciplined bowling strategies have proven effective.
What is the Barsapara Stadium Boundary Length and Pitch Behavior?
| Boundary Type | Distance (Meters) | Impact on Play |
| Side Boundaries | 60 – 66 | Encourages aggressive batting |
| Straight Boundary | 74 | Provides opportunities for big hits |
| Square Boundaries | 67 – 74 | Balanced for both batters and bowlers |
| Pitch Behavior | Batting-friendly | High scores; dew aids teams chasing in night games |
Barsapara Stadium Pitch Report: Batting or Bowling?
The pitch at Barsapara Stadium heavily favors batsmen, especially in T20 formats. With an average first innings score of around 153 in T20s and winning scores above 170, the pitch’s nature supports free-flowing runs. Both teams batting first and second have been able to score big, making it an ideal venue for high-octane cricket. The dew factor, which sets in late in the evening, often benefits the team batting second, as it affects bowlers’ grip and makes the ball skid more on the pitch.
However, bowlers with strong variations, such as slower deliveries and spin, can still make an impact by adjusting to the pitch’s behavior. Spinners often find it challenging, as the ball doesn’t grip the surface much, but well-executed line and length bowling has shown success.
What are the Average Scores at Barsapara Stadium?
| Match Aspect | T20 Statistics |
| Average First Innings Score | 153 |
| Average Winning Score (First Innings) | 170 |
| Highest Total | 237/3 by India vs South Africa in 2022 |
| Lowest Total | 118 all out by India vs Australia in 2017 |
| Best Bowling Performance | 4 for 21 by Jason Behrendorff |
| Total Sixes | 50 |
| Total Fours | 108 |
These averages and statistics reflect Barsapara Stadium’s reputation for exciting, high-scoring games, with the pitch consistently aiding batsmen while offering limited support for bowlers. Over recent games, the stadium has seen several high-scoring matches, with teams often crossing the 200-run mark. The pitch consistently bounces, allowing batsmen to play their shots confidently. This batting advantage and favorable weather conditions have made the stadium popular for limited-overs matches.
The presence of dew in the late evening plays a significant role in the outcome of matches. Dew makes the pitch easier to bat on during the second innings, giving teams chasing a slight edge. In several instances, the chasing team has won due to this factor, as the wet outfield and slippery ball make it difficult for bowlers to maintain control.
Barsapara Stadium T20 Records
Barsapara Stadium has hosted several memorable T20 matches with impressive records, particularly in favor of high-scoring games. The venue’s batting-friendly pitch has set the stage for individual and team achievements in the T20 format. So far, four T20 matches have been played here, with two wins for teams batting second, one win for a team batting first, and one match with no result due to weather disruptions.
Key T20 Records at Barsapara Stadium:
- Total Matches Played: 4
- Batting First Wins: 1
- Batting Second Wins: 2
- No Result: 1
- Average 1st Innings Score: 192
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 189
- Highest Total: 237/3 by India against South Africa in 2022
- Lowest Total: 118 all out by India against Australia in 2017
- Highest Successful Chase: 225/5 by Australia vs India in 2023
- Lowest Total Defended: 237/3 by India vs South Africa in 2022
- Best Bowling Figures: 4 for 21 by Jason Behrendorff (Australia) vs India in 2017
T20 Records at Barsapara Stadium
| Record Type | Details |
| Total Matches Played | 4 |
| Wins Batting First | 1 |
| Wins Batting Second | 2 |
| No Result | 1 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 192 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 189 |
| Highest Total | 237/3 by India vs South Africa |
| Lowest Total | 118 all out by India vs Australia |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4 for 21 by Jason Behrendorff (Australia) |
| Total Sixes | 50 |
| Total Fours | 108 |
These records highlight the stadium’s appeal to aggressive, high-scoring cricket fans, making it a popular venue for T20 internationals. Barsapara Stadium also has posh infrastructure amenities which make the qualitative experience better not only for the players but even for the fans and the media. These components come together to make for a premier sports experience, and a room in which fans can catch the game fully kitted out in comfort.
Notable Centuries and Performances at Barsapara Stadium
Barsapara Stadium has witnessed some stellar individual performances in both ODI and T20 formats. Renowned players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shimron Hetmyer have scored centuries, showcasing the stadium’s potential for big innings.
The role of a Barsapara in the rainbow international matches and IPL matches in the near future Indian Premier League matches is crucial for nurturing young local cricket talent from Northeast India, giving local players a professional platform to chase their aspirations. Furthermore, if it does well, it could mean more similar stadiums in other parts of North East, paving the way for a better sports culture in the region.
ODI and T20 Centuries at Barsapara Stadium
| Format | Player | Team | Score | Balls Faced | Opposing Team | Date | Result |
| ODI | Shimron Hetmyer | West Indies | 106 | 78 | India | Oct 21, 2018 | Lost |
| ODI | Virat Kohli | India | 140 | 107 | West Indies | Oct 21, 2018 | Won |
| ODI | Rohit Sharma | India | 152* | 117 | West Indies | Oct 21, 2018 | Won |
| ODI | Virat Kohli | India | 113 | 87 | Sri Lanka | Jan 10, 2023 | Won |
| ODI | Dasun Shanaka | Sri Lanka | 108* | 88 | India | Jan 10, 2023 | Lost |
| T20 | David Miller | South Africa | 106* | 47 | India | Oct 2, 2022 | Lost |
| T20 | Ruturaj Gaikwad | India | 123* | 57 | Australia | Nov 28, 2023 | Lost |
| T20 | Glenn Maxwell | Australia | 104* | 48 | India | Nov 28, 2023 | Won |
These individual performances underscore the stadium’s role in fostering high-quality, competitive cricket, and the impressive records set here add to its allure as a premier cricket venue.
Conclusion
Barsapara Stadium is an index of the cricketing boom in the Northeast. The stadium has a capacity of 40,000 and is known for its modern facilities and infrastructure. It has now emerged as a center for domestic as well as international cricket. This 2017-inaugurated ground has seen its share of memorable matches, be it classic T20s, ODIs, and the IPL. Not only has its presence increased cricket’s popularity in Assam, but it has also played a key role in spreading the game across the Northeast.
As India’s 49th international cricket venue, Barsapara Stadium has ushered in more of the high-scoring matches and individual heroics that the fans love. Legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and David Miller have showcased their brilliance at this stadium. The pitch’s batting-friendly nature and the carefully designed boundary dimensions create an exciting opportunity for batsmen. Besides, the dew factor has added an element of excitement, making life marginally easier for the batsmen at times in the second innings.
Barsapara Stadium is not merely a cricket venue, it is also a symbol of sports development, regional pride and fan engagement in Assam and beyond. Its legacy lives on in every match, every record, and every cheer from the stands. With cricket now taking firm roots, Barsapara Stadium will be a focal point of the sport across the region and an inspiration for generations of players and fans to come.
