IPL 2024: HPCA Stadium Becomes First Ever Indian Stadium To Get 'Hybrid' Pitch With 'SISGrass'

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium, known for its picturesque setting, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first BCCI-accredited venue to install a state-of-the-art 'hybrid pitch.' This innovative development comes ahead of hosting two Indian Premier League (IPL) matches this season.

According to a HPCA official speaking to PTI on the condition of anonymity, the hybrid track has been successfully installed, paving the way for the upcoming IPL fixtures to be played on this newly implemented surface.

The pioneering initiative sees the collaboration with 'SISGrass,' a Netherlands-based company and a subsidiary of the SIS Pitches group, which specializes in advanced turf technology. The introduction of the hybrid pitch marks a notable advancement in cricket pitch infrastructure, promising enhanced performance and durability compared to traditional surfaces.

According to a press release, "this cutting-edge technology will transform the game by providing a more durable, consistent, and high-performing playing surface."

HPCA president RP Singh said, “The arrival of ground-breaking hybrid pitch technology in India signifies a game-changing moment for our national cricket."

Paul Taylor, a former England cricketer and SIS's international cricket director said, “As we inject new and improved technological advancements into India's vibrant cricket ecosystem, we foresee a catalytic effect on its growth trajectory."

"At SISGrass, and working with fine turf specialists Greater Ten, our delivery partner in India, we are committed to investing in this ecosystem by providing top-notch facilities such as hybrid pitches," he added.

SIS forayed in India after the ICC allowed the use of hybrid surfaces for T20 and 50-over competitions.

Following the success of installing hybrids across English cricket grounds, SIS decided to develop the technology in India.

The surface contains a small percentage of polymer fibre with the natural turf inside cricket stadiums. This composition is believed to be more resilient to stresses created during play, while prolonging life of the pitch, guaranteeing an even bounce and easing pressure on groundstaff.

The completed installations are still predominantly natural grass, with only five per cent polymer fibre used to ensure that the characteristics of an all-natural pitch are maintained.

'The Universal' machine, used in Dharamshala for the hybrid pitch, will be taken to Ahmedabad and Mumbai for creating further such pitches. It will remain in India for future projects.

In the UK, hybrid pitches are approved for T20 and 50-over competitions and will also be used in the four-day County Championship matches this season. The Universal machine has been used to install SISGrass at various grounds in England such as Lord's, The Oval, Edgbaston, Old Trafford and Trent Bridge.

It must be noted that Dharamsala pitch and outfield came under scanner during the ODI World Cup last year and the entire playing surface was refurbished.