Arundel Castle Cricket Ground: A Lovely Place for Cricket and Nature Fans

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Arundel Castle Cricket Ground is one of the prettiest cricket places in England. It sits near a real castle in West Sussex and has lots of green grass, big trees, and peaceful views. People love to visit this ground not just for cricket but also for a calm day outside.

If you like cricket, nature, or quiet days with family, the Arundel Castle Cricket Ground is a great spot to visit. It has a long history, and even famous players like Brian Lara have played there. In this blog, let’s explore why this cricket ground is special, what has happened there, and why it’s a fun stop for any cricket fan.

History of Arundel Castle Cricket Ground in Simple Words

The Arundel Castle Cricket Ground has a long and happy story. It is in West Sussex, near a big and beautiful castle. People first started playing cricket here in 1952. But the ground became really popular when Sussex County Cricket Club started playing more games here in 1972.

In 1990, this cricket ground held its first County Championship match. This was a big step for the ground. Many people came to watch the game. The match was between Sussex and Hampshire and both teams played very well. It ended in a draw, but fans still had lots of fun.

Over the years, the ground became a favorite place for players and fans. It is not too noisy or busy. It is quiet, green, and very pretty. That is why many special cricket matches are held here, even some with international teams.

Now, the Arundel Castle Cricket Ground is not just a place for matches. It is also part of the lovely Arundel Festival and brings people from all around to enjoy cricket and nature together.

Why Cricketers Love Playing at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground

Cricketers say they feel happy and relaxed when they play at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground. One big reason is the peaceful feeling. There are trees all around, birds singing, and a big castle nearby. It feels like playing in a fairy tale garden.

The ground is also very well looked after. The grass is soft and green. The pitch is smooth and nice for both bowlers and batters. It is a place where players can give their best.

Many players who have visited say that this ground is their favorite. Some even say it’s the most beautiful place they have ever played cricket in. That is a big thing to say!

So, when teams come here, they don’t just come to win. They come to enjoy the game in a lovely setting. That makes this ground very special.

Famous Cricket Matches Held at Arundel Castle Ground

Many important matches have been played at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground. One of the first big games was in 1972. It was a one-day match between Sussex and Gloucestershire. Gloucestershire won, and a player named Mike Procter took five wickets.

In the year 2000, there was a special match between MCC and a team from the West Indies. Some of the top players like Brian Lara and Shivnarine Chanderpaul played. Many fans came to watch, and it was a very fun game.

The ground also hosted matches between India A and South Africa A. These matches didn’t have big crowds, but the cricket was very good. Players from these teams showed great skills.

These games made the ground more popular. Now, many people know about Arundel Castle Cricket Ground because of these amazing matches.

Big Players Who Played at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground

Some of the best cricket stars have played at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground. One of the most famous is Brian Lara. He scored a century here and made fans very happy. People still talk about that match!

Another big name is Shivnarine Chanderpaul. He was calm and smart when he played. Fans loved his style. Sherwin Campbell also scored a century in the same game.

Colin Wells and Chris Smith played a great match in 1990. Both scored centuries for their teams. It was a County Championship game that ended in a draw but was full of excitement.

When great players like these come to play, the ground feels magical. People travel from far away to see them. This makes the ground even more special in cricket history.

Arundel Festival and Cricket: A Perfect Match

Every year, Arundel has a fun festival in August. The Arundel Castle Cricket Ground becomes a big part of it. People come for music, food, and also to watch cricket matches.

During the festival, Sussex usually plays one or two matches. Families bring blankets, sit on the grass, and enjoy the game. It feels like a picnic with cricket!

The festival brings smiles to kids and grown-ups. Everyone gets to enjoy the sport and the beautiful nature around the ground. It’s a happy time for the town.

Cricket and the festival go hand in hand. That’s why the ground becomes extra special during this event.

What Makes Arundel Castle Cricket Ground So Beautiful

The beauty of Arundel Castle Cricket Ground is one of a kind. It is surrounded by green trees, open skies, and a lovely castle in the background. Nature and cricket come together in a perfect way.

Even on normal days, people come here just to take pictures or enjoy a quiet walk. When matches are on, it becomes even more lively but still keeps its peaceful feel.

The sound of bat hitting ball, birds chirping, and fans clapping all mix nicely. That is why many call it one of the prettiest grounds in the world.

It’s not just a place to play. It’s a place to feel calm, happy, and connected with the game and nature.

Unicorns’ Big Win at Arundel: A Day to Remember

In 2010, something amazing happened at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground. A team called the Unicorns played against Sussex. No one thought they would win. But they did!

Sussex made a big score of 325 in 40 overs. People thought it was enough. But the Unicorns came to bat and chased it down. They made 327 and won the match!

Wes Durston was the hero. He scored 117 runs from just 68 balls. Fans were shocked and happy at the same time.

This match made history. It became the highest run chase in 40-over cricket at that time. And it happened at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground!

Scary Moments in Cricket: When Players Got Hurt at Arundel

Not all moments at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground are happy. In 2015, something scary happened. Two Surrey players, Moises Henriques and Rory Burns, crashed into each other.

They were trying to catch the ball but ended up getting hurt. Both had to go to the hospital. The match was stopped and fans were worried.

Everyone was happy when both players got better. It reminded us that cricket is fun but can be dangerous too.

That day is remembered not for the game, but for caring and safety.

How Arundel Castle Cricket Ground Helped Nature Too

In 2003, something kind and special happened at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground. The ground helped nature in a big way. People released 1,000 British field crickets here to help save them.

Why it was important:

The crickets were close to disappearing forever.
Arundel was a safe place for them to grow.
It showed love for both cricket and nature.

This small act helped nature in a big way. Now, the ground is not only for sport but also for saving little creatures too.

Is Arundel Castle Cricket Ground Good for Family Days?

Yes, this ground is great for families! You can enjoy cricket and also have a relaxing day out. There’s lots of green space to sit, play, or have a snack.

Things families can enjoy:

Picnic areas with nice views
Quiet walks under the trees
Watching matches in a calm setting

Kids can run around safely. Grown-ups can enjoy the game. It’s a peaceful spot to spend a happy family day.

The Arundel Castle Cricket Ground gives a mix of sport, fun, and nature—all in one lovely place.

Conclusion

The Arundel Castle Cricket Ground is not just a place to play cricket. It is full of history, beauty, and fun stories. Many big players have played here, and many happy fans have watched matches on sunny days. The green grass and the view of the big castle make it very special.

If you love cricket and calm nature, this ground is the perfect place to visit. Families, kids, and cricket lovers can all enjoy a good day here. It’s like going back in time and watching cricket in a beautiful park. So next time you want a peaceful match day, think about Arundel Castle Cricket Ground.