Chail Cricket Ground history is seldom talked about. Many just know about it as it is the highest cricket ground in the world. The history is worth reading.
Location Of Chail Cricket Ground
Chail, Himachal Pradesh.
Owner
HPCA (Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association.
Brief History Of Chail Cricket Ground
- Made by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh in 1893.
- The Maharaja was himself a cricketer. (more is discussed below)
- International matches are yet to be conducted.
How It All Began?
Maharaja Rajinder Singh’s Choice
As it is always with history, the ground itself has an interesting tale behind its creation. It is said that due to strained relations with Lord Kitchener, Maharaja Rajinder Singh was barred from entering Shimla.
The reason being that the Maharaja had married an Englishwoman Florence Bryan who later became a Sikh. Nevertheless, the Maharaja went ahead to rebuilt an old palace in Chail and that now became his Summer retreat.
Maharaja Bhupinder And Cricket
Maharaja Rajinder’s son was known to be a cricketer. Not just that, he also patronized other sports like Polo too. So much so that his two teams, Patiala Tigers (Polo) and Patialia XI (cricket) were the topmost teams in India at that time.
He was also the captain of the Indian team at one point when it toured England in 1911. You might have now known the reason behind why he was the one who built the ground.
Current Usage
The Chail Military School currently uses the ground for cricket. At the time of holidays, Polo too is played here. Though there is a basketball court too nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the highest cricket ground in the world?
What is the highest cricket ground in India?
