Sir Vivian Richards Stadium

Was it really true that this very ground had once been deemed too dangerous for international cricket? Standing here, in front of the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, a beacon of cricketing excellence in Antigua and Barbuda, it’s hard to believe. This stadium, named after the legendary West Indies captain, Sir Viv Richards, has seen its fair share of history since its inauguration in 2007. Built to host matches for the Cricket World Cup that year, it initially accommodated a whopping 20,000 spectators. Today, the capacity stands at a still-impressive 10,000. The stadium’s design, featuring a five-story South Stand and a Northern Stand, aimed to blend modern amenities with a distinctly Caribbean feel. However, the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium hasn’t been without its challenges. Back in 2009, during a Test match against England, the outfield became a point of contention. Excessive sand, added to counter heavy rain, rendered the bowlers’ run-ups unsafe. The match was abandoned after a mere ten balls, earning the ground the nickname “Antigua’s 366th beach” and leading to a year-long ban on international matches. The incident, though embarrassing, served as a turning point. Today, the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium stands as a symbol of resilience, a testament to Antigua and Barbuda’s unwavering passion for cricket and a fitting tribute to one of the game’s most electrifying figures.