Cricket is more than just a sport—it’s a passion, a legacy, and a spectacle that unites millions of fans worldwide. Among the most iconic cricket stadiums, Kensington Oval in Barbados holds a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts. Established in 1871, this historic venue has witnessed some of the most thrilling matches in cricket history, from Test battles to high-octane T20 clashes.
As the Kensington Oval gears up to host key matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, including the grand final, fans and analysts are eager to know everything about this legendary ground. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the pitch behavior, records, boundary dimensions, team performances, and ticket details for the upcoming World Cup matches.
An Overview of Kensington Oval
| Venue Name | Kensington Oval |
|---|---|
| Location | Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies |
| Established | 1871 |
| First Test Match | West Indies vs England (1930) |
| Seating Capacity | 28,000 |
| Pitch Behavior | Balanced wicket with good bounce, favors batsmen early on, slows down later assisting spinners |
| Shortest Boundary | 58 meters |
| Longest Boundary | 65 meters |
| Bowling Ends | Malcolm Marshall End, Joel Garner End |
| Floodlights | Yes |
Kensington Oval is not just a stadium; it’s a symbol of West Indies cricket heritage. Named after two legendary fast bowlers—Malcolm Marshall and Joel Garner—the ground has been a fortress for West Indies cricket over the decades.
For more insights into cricket stadiums worldwide, check out CrickViews.
Kensington Oval Pitch Report: What to Expect?
The pitch at Kensington Ovals is known for its balanced nature, offering something for both batsmen and bowlers. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Batting Conditions
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The pitch provides good bounce and carry, making strokeplay easier for batsmen.
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Early on, fast bowlers get some movement, but as the ball gets older, batting becomes more comfortable.
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The shortest boundary (58m) allows batsmen to target specific areas for maximum runs.
Bowling Conditions
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Pace bowlers enjoy early swing and seam movement.
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As the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, bringing spinners into play.
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The longest boundary (65m) makes it challenging for batsmen to clear the ropes easily.
T20 Performance at Kensington Oval
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Average 1st innings score: 138
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Highest T20 total: 224/5 by West Indies vs England
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Lowest T20 total: 43/10 by West Indies Women vs England Women
For more pitch reports, read about Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
Kensington Oval Stats & Records
Overall T20 Records at Kensington Oval
| Stat | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 42 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 28 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 13 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 138 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 124 |
| Highest Total Recorded | 224/5 (WI vs ENG) |
| Lowest Total Recorded | 43/10 (WIW vs ENGW) |
| Highest Successful Chase | 172/6 (WI vs ENG) |
| Lowest Defended Total | 106/8 (AUSW vs NZW) |
West Indies Performance at Kensington Oval
Test Matches
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Played: 55
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Won: 25
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Lost: 12
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Drawn: 18
ODI Matches
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Played: 42
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Won: 19
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Lost: 23
T20I Matches
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Played: 15
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Won: 9
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Lost: 5
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No Result: 1
The West Indies have a strong record at this venue, particularly in Test cricket, where they’ve won nearly half of their matches.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Fixtures at Kensington Oval
The Kensington Ovals will host nine matches in the T20 World Cup 2024, including the final. Here’s the full schedule:
| Date | Match | Group/Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Sun, 02 Jun | NAM vs OMAN | Group B |
| Tue, 04 Jun | ENG vs SCO | Group B |
| Wed, 05 Jun | AUS vs OMAN | Group B |
| Thu, 06 Jun | NAM vs SCO | Group B |
| Sat, 08 Jun | AUS vs ENG | Group B |
| Thu, 20 Jun | C1 vs A1 | Super 8 Group 1 |
| Fri, 21 Jun | A2 vs C2 | Super 8 Group 2 |
| Sun, 23 Jun | A2 vs B1 | Super 8 Group 2 |
| Sat, 29 Jun | TBC vs TBC | Final |
The final on June 29, 2024, promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the best teams battling for the ultimate glory.
Kensington Oval T20 World Cup Ticket Prices
Planning to attend the matches? Here’s the ticket price range:
| Ticket Type | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Standard | $17 |
| Standard Plus | $17 |
| Premium | $17 |
| Party Stand | $100 |
| The Club – Indoor Lounge | $400 |
Prices are affordable, ensuring fans can experience the electrifying atmosphere of a World Cup match.
FAQs About Kensington Oval
1. What is the boundary length at Kensington Oval?
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Shortest boundary: 58 meters
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Longest boundary: 65 meters
2. Where is Kensington Oval located?
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It is situated in Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies.
3. Is the pitch batting-friendly or bowling-friendly?
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It’s a balanced pitch—good for batting early on, but spinners come into play later.
4. What is the seating capacity of Kensington Oval?
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It can hold 28,000 spectators.
Conclusion
The Kensington Oval is more than just a cricket ground—it’s a historic landmark that has shaped West Indies cricket. With its balanced pitch, electrifying atmosphere, and rich legacy, it’s the perfect venue for the T20 World Cup 2024.
Whether you’re a fan looking to attend matches or a cricket analyst studying pitch behavior, this guide covers everything you need to know. Stay tuned for more updates on CrickViews as we bring you the latest cricket insights!
Will the West Indies dominate at home, or will a new champion emerge? The answer awaits at Kensington Oval! 🏏🔥
