The Sharjah Cricket Stadium is undergoing a makeover as it gears up to host the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) in UAE. IPL is to be hosted across three stadiums in UAE; Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah and Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium is one of the most iconic stadiums as it holds the Guinness Book of records hosting the most number of ODI matches. It had hosted 240 ODI matches till December 9, 2019.
Royal Suite and VIP Hospitality Boxes have been upgraded to improve the viewing experience and to follow all the safety norms during this time. Along with it, the commentator’s box has gone through several changes to maintain social distancing.
Commenting on the ongoing enhancement project, Waleed Bukhatir, Vice Chairman of Sharjah Cricket Stadium said, “We are taking every possible precaution to ensure the safety of everyone from players support staff to franchise owners and it’s our key aim is to keep that bubble intact right through the tournament. No effort will be spared, and we are going about it in a systematic and scientific way.”
Bukhatir added that special attention is being paid to arrangements, which keep safety norms at the forefront. He expressed his delight that Sharjah will share its renowned warm hospitality with cricket players and audience from all over the world.
Bukhatir also informed that there are plans to incorporate a cricket museum which will capture the rich history of the stadium so that it preserves the cricketing legacy of Sharjah and the UAE for generations to come. It will be open for public after IPL 2020 is over.