Bellerive Oval, also known as Blundstone Arena, is located in Hobart, Tasmania, and serves as a prominent venue for cricket and Australian Rules Football. Established in 1914, it became the home of Tasmanian cricket in 1977. The stadium underwent significant upgrades in the early 2000s, including new seating, indoor practice facilities, and media centers, costing $16 million.
The playing area measures approximately 175m x 135m, with slightly shorter square boundaries compared to other major grounds. The pitch is typically slow initially but becomes batter-friendly as the game progresses. It has hosted ODIs, Tests, T20Is, and domestic matches, with a capacity of around 20,000. Modern floodlights make it suitable for day-night matches.
Hobart's Bellerive Oval, also known as Blundstone Arena due to sponsorship reasons, is one of Australia's most scenic and well-regarded cricket grounds. Located on the eastern shore of the Derwent River in Hobart, Tasmania, this ground is known for its spectacular views, with the river and surrounding hills providing a picturesque backdrop for cricket matches.
Scenic Views:Derwent River: The ground's location right on the edge of the river offers stunning views of the water, particularly during evening matches when the light plays off the water's surface.Mount Wellington: The towering presence of Mount Wellington (also known as Kunanyi) in the background adds to the natural beauty of the ground, offering a dramatic contrast with the green of the pitch and the white clouds or mountain peaks.Harbour Views: The ground's setting next to Hobart's vibrant harbor adds an urban dimension to the scenic vistas, blending nature with the city.Bellerive Oval (Blundstone Arena) – Overview
Bellerive Oval, commonly referred to by its sponsor name Blundstone Arena, is a premier cricket and Australian Rules Football venue located in Hobart, Tasmania. The ground has hosted international cricket since 1988, with the first ODI played between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, followed by its inaugural Test match in 1989 featuring Australia and Sri Lanka
FeaturesEstablished: 1914Location: Eastern shore of Hobart, in the city of ClarenceCapacity: Approximately 20,000Dimensions: Playing area spans 175m x 135m.Facilities
Upgraded in the 2000s to include state-of-the-art indoor nets, seating expansions, a television media center, and player facilities, costing $16 million
Competitive Dimensions:Playing Surface: The pitch at Bellerive Oval is typically known for its balanced nature, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers. The pitch can be slow, but spinners often find purchase here, and fast bowlers also enjoy bounce due to the generally firm pitch.Boundaries: The dimensions of the ground are considered fairly standard for modern international venues, with a boundary range between 55-70 meters, ensuring that both batters and bowlers need to be on their game.Capacity: The ground can hold around 20,000 spectators, making it an intimate yet energetic venue for domestic and international cricket matches.Pitch and Playing Conditions
The pitch starts slow but flattens, favoring batters as games progress. The ground has seen high-scoring ODIs and competitive Test matches, balancing contests between bat and ball. Known for hosting day-night matches, its floodlight system enhances visibility during evening games.
Notable Records and MatchesODIs:Highest Total: 363/9 by Sri Lanka vs. Scotland.Memorable Chase: India chased 321/3 against Sri Lanka in 36.4 overs.Tests:Australia's 583/4 against West Indies is the highest total.Notable low total: Australia bowled South Africa out for 85.T20s:Average first-innings score: 147, reflecting competitive totals.Cultural and Sporting Role
Bellerive Oval is the home ground for Tasmania's domestic teams and the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League. It also supports Australian Rules Football, hosting matches for the North Melbourne Football Club. The serene location and modern amenities make it a favorite venue for players and fans alike
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Hobart's Cricket Ground with Scenic Views and Competitive Dimensions
Short StoryBellerive Oval, also known as Blundstone Arena, is located in Hobart, Tasmania, and serves as a prominent venue for cricket and Australian Rules Football.
