Sylhet among the World’s Most Beautiful Cricket Stadiums

Cricket365, a renowned England-based cricket media outlet, has unveiled its list of the seven most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world. Among these stunning venues, Bangladesh’s Sylhet International Cricket Stadium (SICS) has proudly secured a place — a remarkable recognition for the country’s growing cricketing heritage and scenic sporting venues.

A 'Jewel' in Bangladesh’s Northeast

Nestled along Sylhet Airport Road, the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium is truly a sight to behold. Encircled by lush green tea gardens, rolling hills, and a tranquil natural landscape, it offers one of the most serene backdrops in world cricket. The stadium seamlessly blends sport with nature — where the sound of cheering fans often mingles with the songs of birds and the rustle of the surrounding forest.

Over the years, international players, commentators, and visitors have repeatedly praised the venue for its beauty and unique setting. During early morning and late afternoon matches, when mist gently settles over the nearby hills and sunlight reflects off the greenery, the stadium transforms into a postcard-perfect scene — often described by fans as “cricket in paradise.”

From Regional Ground to International Glory

Originally constructed in 2007 as a divisional stadium, the ground underwent a major transformation in 2013, when it was redeveloped and expanded to meet ICC international standards. It officially made its international debut on March 17, 2014, during the ICC T20 World Cup, hosting a group-stage match between Zimbabwe and Ireland.

Since then, the stadium has hosted numerous international fixtures, including Test, ODI, and T20 matches, as well as major Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) encounters. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has continued to invest in its maintenance and expansion, making it one of the best-equipped cricket venues in the country.

Architecture and Capacity

The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium currently accommodates around 18,500 spectators. It features modern seating arrangements, floodlights, a state-of-the-art press box, and eco-friendly design elements that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The venue also includes a practice ground, training facilities, and a separate academy ground, allowing multiple matches or practice sessions to take place simultaneously.

The stadium’s design reflects both modern sports infrastructure and Bangladesh’s natural heritage — with open views of the tea-covered hills enhancing its appeal. At sunset, the panoramic view from the stands is nothing short of mesmerizing.

A Global Recognition

In its feature, Cricket365 wrote:

“Located in the northeast of Bangladesh amid hills and lush tea gardens, the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium is a treat for the eyes. The pristine green surroundings make it feel as though cricket is being played in a green paradise. The scenic backdrop of Sylhet is particularly enchanting during morning or evening matches, when mist covers the hills and twilight light bathes the ground.”

This global recognition places Sylhet alongside some of the world’s most iconic and scenic cricket venues — including:

• Newlands Cricket Stadium, South Africa

• Adelaide Oval, Australia

• HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala, India

• Gwadar Cricket Stadium, Pakistan

• Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Saint Lucia, West Indies

• Lord’s Cricket Ground, England

For Bangladesh, this inclusion marks more than just an aesthetic achievement — it reflects the country’s dedication to creating world-class sporting venues that celebrate its natural beauty, cultural richness, and cricketing passion.

With its combination of modern infrastructure and breathtaking scenery, the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium continues to be a shining symbol of Bangladesh’s sporting progress and a favourite among cricket lovers worldwide.