The Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, commonly known as the Mohali Cricket Stadium, is one of India’s most prominent cricket grounds. Located in Mohali, a satellite city of Chandigarh, the stadium has played host to countless memorable cricket matches, including high-voltage India-Pakistan clashes and IPL thrillers. One technical aspect that often goes unnoticed by casual fans, but is vital to the game, is the boundary length.
Table of Contents
What is Boundary Length?
In cricket, boundary length refers to the distance from the center of the pitch to the edge of the playing field, usually marked by a rope or a fence. The International Cricket Council (ICC) recommends that boundary lengths in international matches should be between 65 meters and 85 meters from the center of the pitch. However, the exact measurements can vary from stadium to stadium depending on layout, pitch position, and event requirements.
Mohali Cricket Stadium: Quick Overview
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium |
| Location | Mohali, Punjab, India |
| Capacity | ~26,000 |
| First International Match | 1993 (India vs South Africa) |
| Ends | Pavilion End, City End |
| Known For | Pace-friendly pitch, large outfield |
Average Boundary Dimensions at Mohali
| Direction | Approximate Boundary Length (in meters) |
|---|---|
| Straight | 74 – 77 |
| Square (Off/Leg) | 66 – 69 |
| Fine Leg/Third Man | 60 – 64 |
| Long-on/Long-off | 72 – 75 |
Note: These dimensions can vary slightly based on how the pitch is positioned on the square.
Characteristics of the Boundaries
The Mohali stadium is not the biggest, but it also doesn’t have the shortest boundaries in India. Its straight boundaries are moderate, making lofted shots down the ground a viable but slightly risky option. The square boundaries are neither too long nor too short, providing a balanced playing field for batsmen and bowlers alike.
Comparison with Other Indian Stadiums
| Stadium | Straight (m) | Square (m) | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mohali (PCA) | 74–77 | 66–69 | Pace-friendly pitch |
| Wankhede (Mumbai) | 68–70 | 63–65 | Short boundaries, high scores |
| Eden Gardens (Kolkata) | 70–72 | 65–68 | Historic, spinners’ track |
| M. Chinnaswamy (Bangalore) | 66–68 | 60–63 | Very short, high scoring |
| Narendra Modi (Ahmedabad) | 75–78 | 69–71 | Modern infrastructure |
From this comparison, it’s clear that Mohali offers more balanced boundary lengths, favoring neither batsmen nor bowlers excessively.
Impact on Gameplay
For Batsmen
- Positive: Batsmen can confidently go for square shots like the cut or pull, thanks to moderate boundary sizes.
- Challenging: Straight boundaries require proper timing and power; mis-hits often fall short of sixes.
- Opportunity: The fast outfield and consistent bounce make it a rewarding venue for well-timed ground strokes.
For Bowlers
- Fast Bowlers: They enjoy bowling at Mohali due to the bounce and carry. Well-directed short-pitched balls are effective because of slightly longer square boundaries.
- Spinners: Though not traditionally a spinner-friendly venue, spinners who can vary pace and angle can use the boundary lengths to trap batsmen into false shots.
For Fielding Teams
- Teams often set deeper fielders square of the wicket to defend boundaries, especially during powerplays and death overs.
- Boundary riders at long-on and long-off are frequently employed due to the ground’s dimensions favoring lofted shots down the ground.
IPL Influence and Temporary Configurations
During Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, the pitch location can shift, leading to asymmetric boundary lengths. For example, one side of the square might be as short as 60 meters, while the opposite side could be around 70 meters. This variation adds a strategic layer for both teams:
- Teams may plan their batting order around boundary lengths.
- Bowlers adjust their lengths and lines depending on which side has the shorter rope.
Renovation and Modern Features
While the stadium retains a traditional layout, recent upgrades in lighting and seating have made it more spectator-friendly. However, the boundary dimensions have largely remained unchanged, preserving the ground’s legacy of offering a fair contest between bat and ball.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Straight Boundaries | ~74–77 meters |
| Square Boundaries | ~66–69 meters |
| Shortest Boundaries | Fine Leg/Third Man (~60–64 m) |
| ICC Requirement | 65–85 meters from center |
| Stadium Capacity | ~26,000 |
| Pitch Type | Bounce and pace-friendly |
The boundary length of Mohali Cricket Stadium is one of its defining features, offering a fair but slightly challenging environment for batsmen and an encouraging one for pace bowlers. Neither excessively short nor overly long, the boundaries strike a balance that enhances the quality of cricket played. As the game evolves, especially in formats like T20, Mohali continues to adapt without losing the essence of competitive cricket.
