ADELAIDE
The capital of South Australia is situated on the coast with white beaches lining its shores. Adelaide has been known for its big open spaces in the centre of the city that are interspersed with streets lined in a grid. A circle of parklands runs around the streets and the place is known for its lively atmosphere.
Sport plays a major role here as the city is represented by two teams -- Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide Football Club -- in the Australian Rules Football League. There’s a team in the A-League too -- Adelaide United.
Adelaide, is also known as the wine capital of Australia.
ADELAIDE OVAL
The stadium has hosted cricket since 1871 and was long known to be one of the most picturesque grounds in the world. A lot of that has changed, though, after the aus$500 million Australian redevelopment that allowed the hosting of Australian Rules football matches as well as music concerts.
The playing surface is different as well since a drop-in pitch is laid at the headquarters of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA). SACA chief executive Keith Bradshaw oversaw the enhancement of the stadium, like he did at Lord’s when he served the same role at MCC.
Nevertheless, some of the iconic elements of the Oval remain. The famous spectator hill beneath the Moreton Bay fig trees will continue to delight fans at the venue.
Over the years, numerous cricketing legends have displayed their wares at this ground. But none of them as great as Sir Don Bradman, who played most of his cricket at the Oval.
Capacity: 50,000
Playing area: 190.2m long, 126.2m wide
Highest total: 339/4 (WI vs. Pak, 2005)
Lowest total: 70 (Aus vs. NZ, 1986)
Highest score: 156 (Brian Lara)
Best bowling: 5/16 (Carl Rackemann)
HAMILTON
Situated on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is the largest inland city of New Zealand. It belongs to the North Island of the country and is home to a thriving hospitality culture. Among other things, Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton, Raglan's surf coast and Te Aroha Mineral Pools are the major tourist attractions.
From an agricultural service centre, Hamilton has developed into a major urban area. For those hoping to witness other sporting events in the city, rugby union teams Waikato and Chiefs can be seen plying their trade at the Waikato Stadium.
The Soundscape music festival, a favourite across the country, is hosted in Hamilton.
SEDDON PARK
Home to the Northern Districts, Seddon Park is known for its picnic-like atmosphere. The stadium’s contoured grassy banks are a particular delight, and fans can be often seen relaxing there while enjoying the cricket.
Once the cricket season finishes, Seddon Park plays host to other sports and events.
The stadium was named after former New Zealand Prime Minister Richard John Seddon. However, due to selling of the naming rights, the venue has also been known as the Trust Bank Park, WestpacTrust Park, or Westpac Park.
While the stadium has been in use since the 1956/57 First Class season, the first Test was played in 1991 when the Kiwis hosted Sri Lanka. ODIs, however, have been hosted by Seddon Park since 1981. India was the first country to play a limited-overs international in Hamilton.
M.S. Dhoni’s men will return to the venue on March 10 when they face Ireland.
Capacity: 10,000
Playing area: NA
Highest total: 363/4 (WI vs. NZ, 2014)
Lowest total: 122 (Ind vs. NZ, 2003)
Highest score: 181 not out (Matthew Hayden)
Best bowling: 4/21 (Andre Adams)
