Sharjah Cricket Stadium has announced a series of major upgrades ahead of it hosting 10 cricket matches during IPL 2021, which will be held in the UAE in September 2021.

According to a press release, the matches hosted by the stadium will include a qualifier and an eliminator. The improvements planned include a re-laid wicket block, which will now accommodate 10 pitches in the centre of the outfield – these will include four broadcasting and two practice pitches.

Furthermore, a new practice facility with four turf wickets, and four Astroturf wickets are being built to accommodate the multiple teams using them for practice sessions, the statement added. These will be ready in time for the IPL.

A state-of-the-art Fit Capital gymnasium, indoor swimming pool, steam and sauna area have also been upgraded for the players to use.

There are also 11 new VIP suites, a VIP Grand dining area and improved hospitality facilities at the top tier of the Pavilion end.

Managing Director of Bukhatir Group and CEO of Sharjah Cricket Stadium Khalaf Bukhatir said: “Sharjah’s atmosphere or as we like to call it the ‘Sharjah magic’ is what differentiates the stadium from any other cricketing venue in the UAE. This was no more evident than at last year’s edition when we played host to some of the most exciting moments of the IPL.”

“In recent years we have invested in all elements to ensure that players and spectators alike have an even better match-day experience.

“We still don’t know if we are welcoming cricket fans into the stadium this IPL, but we are certainly ready and looking forward to hosting some world-class cricket in a world-class, safe and secure environment,” Bukhatir added.

Visitors will be able to avail of improved parking facilities and enhancement of the public spaces around the gates as well as increased food and beverage offerings in every stand, and the opening of a kiosk where IPL merchandise will be sold if public is allowed, he said.

Sharjah is scheduled to host the first game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore on September 24 and will also host Qualifier 2 (October 11) and the Eliminator (October 13) as part of their 10 matches.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has also confirmed that the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 will be staged in the UAE and Oman from October 17 to November 14, 2021.