Sylhet International Cricket Stadium

Sylhet International Cricket Stadium stands as Bangladesh's newest Test venue, officially inaugurating international cricket in 2018. The ground represents the cricket board's effort to decentralize the sport beyond Dhaka and Chittagong, bringing top-level cricket to the northeastern Sylhet division. The stadium's pitch characteristics reveal interesting patterns across formats. In ODI cricket, the surface has proven favorable for batting, with first innings averaging 278.71 runs and teams batting first enjoying a strong 66.67% win rate. Test cricket shows similar trends, with first innings scores averaging 269.80 and bat-first teams winning 60% of matches. However, T20 cricket presents a contrasting picture, with significantly lower first innings averages of 130.63, though batting first still provides an advantage with a 61.54% success rate. The venue has hosted 39 international matches across all formats, quickly establishing itself despite its relative youth. The ground's most significant moment came with Bangladesh's historic Test victory over the West Indies in 2021, marking their first Test win at the venue. The match showcased the pitch's ability to provide competitive cricket while still offering batting-friendly conditions. The stadium's modern facilities and passionate local support create an intimate atmosphere. Sylhet's cricket-loving population brings enthusiasm that rivals the traditional venues, making it a welcomed addition to Bangladesh's cricket infrastructure and providing players with a fresh challenge in domestic conditions.