Chemplast Cricket Ground

Ever wondered what it’s like to play cricket in a place Sachin Tendulkar calls the most scenic in India? We’re standing at the Chemplast Cricket Ground, nestled within the lush greenery of the IIT Madras campus. Chemplast Cricket Ground, also known as the Indian Institute of Technology Chemplast Ground, isn’t just a cricket field. It’s a testament to the sport’s enduring spirit, a place where dreams are bowled and boundaries are broken. Established in 1998, this ground has seen its share of thrilling matches. The iconic pavilion, inaugurated by the legendary Neil Harvey, exudes an old-world charm blended with modern amenities. Imagine the energy here in 2003 when Chemplast Cricket Ground hosted its first Women’s One Day International, a clash between India and New Zealand. Over the years, it has hosted eight Women’s ODIs, witnessing some spectacular displays of athleticism and strategy. The last women’s ODI held here, in 2007, saw India face off against England. This ground isn’t just about international matches. It’s a breeding ground for talent. Players like Yuvraj Singh and Zaheer Khan held their first training camp here before their debut tour to Kenya. Even Harbhajan Singh tried out for the Chemplast team here in 1997. The facilities here are top-notch, a testament to Sanmar’s commitment to the sport. This dedication is evident in their two teams, Jolly Rovers and Alwarpet Cricket Club, both supported by Sanmar. In a historic moment, these two teams faced each other in the TNCA first division cricket league finals in 2019. This is further underscored by the renaming of the facility at the IIT-Chemplast Sanmar ground to the “KS Narayanan Centre for Cricketing Excellence.” Chemplast Cricket Ground isn’t just a place to play cricket. It’s a place where history is made, where legends are born, and where the spirit of cricket thrives.