The Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Saturday (August 14) announced major upgrades in the run-up to the remainder of IPL 2021 season, which will be played in UAE from September 19 to October 15.

The iconic venue is due to host 10 games of the second phase of IPL 14 followed by the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, slated to be held in UAE and Oman from October 17 to November 14.

“The newly re-laid wicket block will now accommodate six pitches in the centre, including four broadcasting and two practice pitches.

“They are currently building a new practice facility with four turf wickets and four astro-turf wickets to accommodate multiple teams during practice sessions. These will be ready in time for the IPL,” a media release issued in Sharjah stated.

The upgraded facilities also include a state-of-the-art ‘fit capital gymnasium’, the indoor swimming pool, steam, and sauna area.

In addition, there are 11 new VIP suites, a new VIP grand dining area and improved hospitality facilities at the top tier of the pavilion end.

“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,” said Khalaf Bukhatir, Managing Director of Bukhatir Group and CEO of Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

“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,” Bukhatir added.

“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,” he said.

A total of 31 matches will be played in the UAE-leg of IPL 2021. Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Qualifier 2 on October 11 and the Eliminator on October 13 will also be staged in the same stadium.

(With PTI inputs)