IPL 2024: Not Eden Gardens or Chinnaswamy! This IPL Stadium is the First Indian ground with Hybrid SISGrass Technology

An Indian cricket stadium has introduced SISGrass Hybrid Pitch Technology, a first in the country during the IPL 2024.

This technology blends the best of natural and artificial playing surfaces, promising durability, consistent performance, and safety for players.

Originating from the Netherlands, SISGrass aims to elevate Indian cricket by offering a solution to the rapid deterioration traditional pitches face under heavy use. The technology not only supports the rigorous training schedules but also extends the life of the pitches, ensuring even bounce and reducing workload on groundskeepers.

This initiative is part of a larger movement to upgrade cricket facilities across India, with plans to roll out similar projects nationwide from 2024 onwards. The approval from the ICC for hybrid surfaces in T20 and 50-over competitions has paved the way for this innovation, following the successful implementation of such pitches in the United Kingdom.

What is SISGrass Technology?

The Universal machine, developed by SISGrass in 2017, plays a crucial role in this transformation. It introduces a blend of 5% polymer fibre with natural turf, enhancing the resilience and quality of cricket pitches. This technology has already proven its worth in England, used in almost every County ground, including iconic venues like Lord's and Edgbaston.

Dharamshala Stadium is the First in India

In India, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala has become the first stadium to introduce SISGrass hybrid technology in the country. The picturesque stadium at the heart of the Dhauladhar Range is now equipped with the latest grass innovation after its issues with the outfield during the 2023 ICC World Cup.

The new-looked outfield will be in use in the IPL 2024 as Punjab Kings are set to play two of their home matches at this venue.

Mumbai and Ahmedabad Next

Following the installation in Dharamshala, the Universal machine will next be seen in Ahmedabad and Mumbai, focusing on creating high-quality pitches for both practice and matches. The move towards hybrid pitches is a significant step in adapting to the demands of shorter cricket formats which require quick preparation of durable playing surfaces.