If you are a cricket fan or a traveller, the SuperSport Park cricket stadium is a must-visit destination. Located in Centurion, South Africa, this stadium is a hub for cricket enthusiasts and sports fans. The stadium is well-known for hosting various international and domestic cricket matches and is home to the Titans franchise team. The stadium has an impressive seating capacity of 22,000, making it one of the largest cricket stadiums in South Africa. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes SuperSport Park such a special destination for cricket fans and travellers alike.
See also: World’s largest cricket stadium: Narendra Modi Stadium
SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium: History
SuperSport Park has an interesting history that dates back to the early 1980s when the stadium was constructed. The stadium was initially known as Centurion Park and was designed by an architect named Chris Wilkinson. The stadium was officially opened in 1986 and became a popular destination for cricket fans in the region. Since then, the stadium has undergone various renovations and upgrades, making it a modern and world-class cricket stadium.
Source: Pinterest
SuperSport Park has hosted numerous international and domestic cricket matches over the years, including test matches, one-day internationals and T20 matches. The stadium has also hosted matches during the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2009 Indian Premier League. In 2003, the stadium set a record for the highest total in a one-day international match, with South Africa scoring 392/6 against Pakistan.
SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium: Features
SuperSport Park is a modern and state-of-the-art cricket stadium that offers fans an exceptional match-day experience. The stadium is designed to provide excellent views of the field from every angle and has a seating capacity of 22,000. The stadium has various seating options, including general admission, reserved seating and VIP boxes. The seating is comfortable and spacious, ensuring that fans can enjoy the match in comfort.
Source: Pinterest
The stadium also has excellent food and drink options, including local cuisine and international favourites. There are various food and drink stalls located throughout the stadium, making it easy for fans to grab a quick snack or drink during the match. Additionally, the stadium has a large parking area, ensuring that fans can easily access the stadium and park their cars.
SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium: How to reach?
SuperSport Park cricket stadium is in Centurion, which is approximately 30 km south of Pretoria and 50 km north of Johannesburg in South Africa. Here are some ways to reach the stadium:
By car
The easiest way to reach SuperSport Park is by car. There are several car rental companies available at both OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Lanseria International Airport. You can also hire a taxi or an Uber from the airport to the stadium.
By bus
Between Johannesburg and Pretoria, a number of bus companies are in operation. You can take a bus from either city to Centurion and then take a taxi or an Uber to SuperSport Park.
By train
The Gautrain is a fast and efficient train service that runs between Johannesburg and Pretoria with a stop in Centurion. From the Centurion station, you can take a taxi or an Uber to the stadium.
By air
OR Tambo International Airport and Lanseria International Airport are the closest airports to SuperSport Park.
It’s important to plan your transportation ahead of time, especially on match days, as traffic and parking can be challenging. Make sure to check the schedule of the match you’re attending and plan your arrival accordingly.
SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium: Timings
The timings of events at SuperSport Park cricket stadium can vary depending on the season and the match schedule. Here are some general guidelines:
Match timings
For cricket matches, the start times can vary depending on the format of the game. Test matches typically start at 10:00 AM local time and last for five days. One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 matches usually start in the afternoon or evening and last for a few hours. It’s important to check the match schedule ahead of time to confirm the exact start time.
Stadium timings
The stadium gates typically open a few hours before the start of the match. This allows fans to enter the stadium, find their seats, and enjoy the pre-match atmosphere. It’s recommended to arrive at least an hour before the match starts to avoid any delays.
Tour timings
If you’re thinking about touring the stadium, the timings can vary depending on the season and the availability of guides. It’s recommended to check the official website of the stadium or contact the management for the latest timings and availability.
Match day experience
If you’re planning to attend a cricket match at SuperSport Park, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your experience. Firstly, it’s important to arrive early, especially if you want to secure a good seat. Gates usually open a few hours before the start of the match, allowing fans to enter the stadium and find their seats.
Source: Wikipedia
Once inside the stadium, fans can enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of a live cricket match. The stadium is well-designed to offer excellent views of the field from every angle, ensuring that fans don’t miss a moment of the action. There are also various food and drink options available, making it easy for fans to enjoy a snack or drink during the match.
Additionally, it’s crucial to wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you’re attending a match during the summer months. South Africa can get quite hot during the summer, so it’s recommended to wear light and comfortable clothing.
SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium: Nearby attractions
The area surrounding SuperSport Park is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity, with plenty of attractions and activities for travellers to enjoy. Several of the region’s most well-known attractions include the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, which is home to a wide range of animals and bird species. There’s also the Irene Village Market, a popular open-air market that offers a range of locally-made crafts, food, and drink.
If you’re a fan of history, you can visit the Voortrekker Monument, a massive granite structure that commemorates the Great Trek, which was a significant event in South Africa’s history. The monument also offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
For those who enjoy shopping, there’s the Centurion Mall, which offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The mall is located just a few minutes away from SuperSport Park, making it a convenient destination for travellers.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, there are numerous parks and natural areas nearby, including the Groenkloof Nature Reserve and the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. These reserves offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making them a great option for nature lovers.
FAQs
Am I allowed to bring food and beverages into the stadium?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed into the stadium. However, there are plenty of food and beverage options available inside the stadium.
Can I buy tickets at the stadium?
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the stadium box office on match days. However, it's recommended to buy tickets in advance to avoid any potential delays or sold-out matches.
Is there any provision for parking at the stadium?
Yes, there are parking facilities available at the stadium, but they can be limited on match days. To avoid any inconvenience related to parking, it is advisable to arrive early or consider using public transportation.
Can I take a tour of the stadium?
Yes, guided tours of SuperSport Park are available, but timings can vary depending on the season and the availability of guides. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the management for the latest timings and availability.
Are there any accommodations available near the stadium?
Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses available in the surrounding area. It's recommended to book in advance, especially on match days, as accommodations can fill up quickly.
Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |