Team India is set to return to Chester-le-Street in Durham after a long gap of 15 years as they take on England in the opening match of the T20 series starting July 1. The venue, the Riverside Ground, has an unusual and surprising history when it comes to India’s past encounters there.
India vs England begins in Durham
The five-match T20 series between India and England kicks off on Wednesday, July 1, with the first match being played at Chester-le-Street, County Durham. The contest comes at a crucial time for India, who are looking to bounce back after recent setbacks.
The venue also adds an interesting twist-none of the Indian players in the current squad have played a match at this ground before.
A ground India hasn’t conquered yet
India’s history at this venue has been extremely limited, with just two previous appearances-and both ended without a result due to rain interruptions.
The upcoming match marks India’s return to this ground after 15 years, making it a rare and unfamiliar setting for the visiting side.
Flashback: Two washed-out matches
India’s last match at Chester-le-Street came in 2011 during an ODI against England. In that game, India batted first, with a fluent half-century from Virat Kohli, but the match was abandoned due to rain during England’s innings.
Before that, in the 2002 NatWest Trophy clash, India saw a similar fate despite a memorable century from Sachin Tendulkar, as rain once again denied a result.
Unusual record at Durham
Both of India’s previous matches at the Riverside Ground ended without a result, making it one of the more unlucky venues in their overseas history. Each time, India had strong individual performances but weather interruptions prevented a full game.
What to expect this time
As India and England meet again at Chester-le-Street, all eyes will not only be on the contest but also on the weather. With history suggesting rain has played a major role here, fans will be hoping for the first-ever complete result between the two sides at this venue.