Newlands Cricket Ground: History, Pitch and Memorable Tests
Explore Newlands in Cape Town: its Table Mountain backdrop, Test history since 1889, seam-friendly pitch and moments from the 2011 and 2018 Tests.
Newlands is one of the most beautiful and best-known cricket grounds in the world. Located in the suburb from which it takes its name, in southern Cape Town, it is overlooked by Table Mountain and ringed by tall oak trees. It is the home of Western Province in domestic cricket and has long been the venue for the New Year Test match in South Africa.
History
The ground opened in 1888 and staged its first Test in 1889, when South Africa played England, making it among the oldest Test venues in the world. The stadium has a capacity of about 25,000 and has been upgraded several times, but it has retained its character, including grass banks and shaded seating beneath the trees.
Pitch and conditions
Newlands has traditionally offered something for the quicker bowlers, particularly in the first session of a Test, with bounce and seam movement on a pitch that can carry well. Strong southeasterly winds, locally known as the Cape Doctor, can swirl across the ground and affect the ball. The surface often becomes easier for batting once the new ball has lost its shine, and in longer matches spinners have sometimes found turn on the later days.
Memorable matches
In November 2011, Australia were bowled out for 47 by South Africa at Newlands, one of the lowest totals in their history. In March 2018 the ground was the setting for the Test in which Australian players were found to have tampered with the ball, an incident that led to bans for Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. In January 2024 the Test between South Africa and India finished inside two days, the shortest completed Test in terms of balls bowled.
The ground today
Alongside Tests, Newlands stages one-day and T20 internationals and franchise cricket in the SA20 league. Its setting, history and role in the festive calendar mean it is often listed among the sport’s most special grounds.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Newlands cricket ground?
It is in the Newlands suburb of Cape Town, South Africa, beneath Table Mountain.
What is the Newlands pitch like?
It usually offers pace, bounce and seam movement early in a game and becomes easier for batting later, with some assistance for spin on the later days.
Which controversial Test was played at Newlands in 2018?
The Test between South Africa and Australia in March 2018, in which ball tampering by Australian players led to bans.