Six Cricket Destinations to Celebrate the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2021
With the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 fast approaching, some fans can finally experience matches in person and feel the excitement within the stadium. Our research shows that 46% of global travelers are excited to travel abroad for a sporting event as travel restrictions ease*, and while some fans may not be able to travel to Oman or the UAE to watch the ICC Men’s T20 tournament live, We are sharing six destinations around the globe to inspire cricket fans to bring their cricket dreams to life as restrictions continue to ease and it becomes safe and responsible to travel again. Whether it’s to enjoy warmer matches in Australia or Barbados, a glass of Pimms in the pavilion in England or feel the energy of the crowds in India or Sri Lanka.
Booking.com is the official accommodation booking partner of the tournament which takes place from 17 October - 14 November. To build added excitement and anticipation for the tournament, We have also enlisted star England cricketer and ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2019 winner, Jos Buttler, as global campaign ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021. Jos has been warming up for the forthcoming tournament with a final indoor batting challenge on home soil, trying to beat his own run score of 32, before England head out to the UAE and Oman to face their biggest rivals in T20 cricket. You can also find out about his favourite cricket memories including his most memorable cricket ground to play at in a quick fire Q&A for Booking.com.
Melbourne, Australia
Known locally as ‘The G’, Melbourne Cricket Ground is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere and the perfect place to join in with the cheering crowds after being restricted to watching sport from home. The first-ever Test match in cricket history (between rivals Australia and England) took place at this mammoth stadium in 1877. But the most electric atmosphere to be found here is easily on the test match on the day after Christmas on Boxing Day, when the crowd reaches euphoric heights.
Where to stay: Just a short walk away from Melbourne Cricket Ground, Quest Jolimont offers sleek and modern self contained apartments perfect for a comfortable stay. Fitted with flat screen TVs, air conditioning, a full kitchen and stunning views of the city, these apartments are perfect for cricket fans to put their feet up and feel at home after an exciting day of batting and fielding. For the more active travelers, discover what Melbourne has to offer with a kayaking tour towards the Dockland’s marina to explore the city before or after a world-class cricket match.
London, UK
Lord’s Cricket Ground, also known as the ‘home of cricket’, in London is arguably the most famous cricket ground in the world. It was built in 1814 and named after Thomas Lord, the owner of Marylebone Cricket Club (the body that controls the laws of cricket) at the time. History has been made here, with over 100 Test matches played and numerous records won by the English cricket team. Enjoy a cold beer or a glass of Pimm’s as a spectator and enjoy the scenic view of the Victorian pavilion and luscious green grounds.
Where to stay: In London's Little Venice, Europa House offers spacious apartments in a regency townhouse, with three acres of private gardens and is just a short walk from Lord’s. Decorated with chic textiles, original artwork and wooden floors, each of these luxury apartments have a large living area where guests can sit back and relax. Clifton Road is nearby, where guests can find a selection of cafes, organic delis and chic boutiques to enjoy a quintessentially English day before a good game of cricket.
Cape Town, South Africa
With Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak offering the perfect backdrop for this iconic cricket stage, Newlands Cricket Ground is one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world. Established in 1888, the ground boasts a rich history and has witnessed most of cricket's greatest players in action. Whether you come to a match, go on a stadium tour or attend an event, the atmosphere of Newlands will be sure to enchant you.
Where to stay: Situated just around the corner from Newlands cricket ground The Bergzicht Guest Suite offers a cozy stay close to the cricket action. The suite is equipped with a kitchenette, dining area, living room and private bathroom and also offers a beautiful terrace overlooking the garden. When not enjoying a match, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing and all Cape Town has to offer or experience the city from the water with a coastal cruise.
Kolkata, India
Full of cheering fans, Eden Gardens stadium is a giant in the cricket world. Famed for the deafening cheers of passionate fans, it’s seen World Cup finals, hat-tricks and surprise victories. It has become something of a place of pilgrimage for most international cricketers and the emblem of India’s love of cricket.
Where to stay: For a special cricket occasion, stay in an equally special hotel at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata. Just a short walk away from the cricket ground, the hotel houses an outdoor pool, gym and spa. The hotel also features four dining options offering European and Asian cuisine as well as 24-hour room service. You will feel fully pampered if you treat yourself to this luxurious stay.
Galle, Sri Lanka
Fringed on two sides by the Indian Ocean and overlooked by the ancient walls of Galle Fort, the Galle International Cricket Stadium is situated amongst Sri Lanka’s scenic beauty. Known as ‘The Esplanade’ before it was brought up to international cricket standards, the stadium is now the home ground of the Galle Cricket Club.The refurbished stands have risen like beacons of hope from the destruction of the 2004 Tsunami.
Where to stay: Set in the Old Town district of Galle, The Entrance Galle Fort is just a short walk from Galle International Cricket Stadium. The air-conditioned rooms, in which some are lucky enough to feature a beautiful terrace, offer the perfect stay to cool down after an exciting game of cricket in the tropical heat. To explore the local area, take a day trip to Bundala National Park for a safari tour. The Park is a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and you’ll have a chance to see an abundance of wildlife here such as elephants and crocodiles.
Bridgetown, Barbados
Cricket is the national sport of the West Indies and the Kensington Oval is the region’s most beloved cricket ground. Built in 1882, it was recently renovated and can now hold even more spectators. Today it’s a great ground for fans, with abundant energy thanks to the glorious sunshine and singing during matches.
Where to stay: If you’re looking for a gorgeous stay in paradise, Sugar Bay Barbados is a short drive away from the Oval. The hotel has an outdoor pool and spa centre and overlooks a stunning beach of white sand and crystal blue water. Between sun-bathing and watching the cricket, guests can have fun and take part in the hotel’s water sports facilities.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who are planning to travel in the next 12 months. In total 28,042 respondents across 28 countries and territories were polled (including 1003 from Argentina, 1002 from Australia, 1000 from Brazil, 1001 from Canada, 1000 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 1001 from Croatia, 1003 from Denmark, 1002 from France, 1005 from Germany, 1004 from Hong Kong, 1000 from India, 1002 from Israel, 1000 from Italy, 1000 from Japan, 1002 from Mexico, 1000 from Netherlands, 1000 from New Zealand, 1003 from Russia, 1000 from Singapore, 1003 from South Korea, 1005 from Spain, 1001 from Sweden, 1000 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 1000 from UK, 1000 from USA and 1000 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in January 2021.