Sawai Mansingh Stadium, JAIPUR

Come this winter, the cricketing world will get a taste of Indian royalty as the Sawai Mansingh Stadium has been picked as one of the venues for the 2006 ICC Champions Trophy.

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium hosted its first international match in 1983. Though, it is situated in the Pink City (Jaipur), the Sawai Mansingh Stadium hasn’t had many colourful moments. The first Test match on this ground was played in 1987 between India and Pakistan - a game that was witnessed by Pakistan's President General Zia-ul-Haq. The Test ended in a draw but it aroused controversy as Pakistan objected to the alleged use of sawdust on the wicket. Unfortunately, that proved to be the first and only Test at the Mansingh Stadium.

Poor management and lack of facilities resulted in Jaipur not getting too many ODIs. It nearly ran the risk of losing its international status after it didn't host any international game between 1999 and 2005. However, a shift in power brought about a shift in fortunes too for the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Businessman Lalit Modi tamed the incumbent Kishen Rungta to take the reigns of Rajasthan cricket in his hands. Within few months of his appointment, Modi brought international cricket back to Jaipur as it hosted a thrilling ODI between India and Sri Lanka. While the home side celebrated a memorable win, the RCA (Rajasthan Cricket Association) officials drew praises from all quarters for the stark improvement at the venue. The RCA officials have now been rewarded for their efforts with Jaipur getting six matches for the ICC Champions Trophy and for the first time in history, Jaipur fans will witness a mouth-watering clash between Ashes rivals Australia and England
 

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