HPCA's newly installed SubAir Drainage System helps ensure timely start of India-Afghanistan clash in Dharamshala
Dharamshala, June 13
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association successfully showcased the capabilities of its newly installed SubAir Drainage System at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala, as the venue was made match-ready in approximately 20 minutes despite more than 12 hours of continuous rainfall in the city.
Heavy rain had lashed Dharamshala through the previous day and continued for an extended period leading into the highly anticipated India versus Afghanistan fixture. While such weather conditions would traditionally pose a significant challenge for match preparation, HPCA's investment in one of the most advanced drainage technologies in world cricket enabled the ground staff to restore playing conditions swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that the match commenced as scheduled.
The fixture, featuring two of Asia's leading cricketing nations, attracted significant interest from fans across the country and around the world. With thousands of spectators in attendance and millions watching through broadcast and digital platforms, the ability to prepare the playing area within a short span of time underscored the importance of modern infrastructure in today's game.
The newly installed SubAir Drainage System is a state-of-the-art technology designed to rapidly remove water from beneath the playing surface. Unlike conventional drainage systems that rely primarily on gravity, the SubAir system actively pulls water and moisture away from the turf through a network of underground pipes, significantly accelerating the drying process. The technology helps maintain the quality of the outfield, improves player safety and allows grounds to recover quickly following adverse weather conditions.
The system is regarded as a benchmark in modern sports venue management and is also utilised at the renowned M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, a venue widely recognised for its ability to resume play quickly after rain interruptions.
The successful performance of the SubAir Drainage System further reinforces HPCA's commitment to continually upgrading facilities at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala. Over the years, the venue has earned a reputation as one of the most scenic and technologically advanced cricket stadiums in the world, hosting international matches across formats and welcoming some of the biggest names in the sport.
The installation of the world-class drainage system marks another significant milestone in HPCA's efforts to provide players, match officials, broadcasters and fans with an exceptional cricketing experience while minimising weather-related disruptions.
As Dharamshala continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination for international cricket, investments in cutting-edge infrastructure such as the SubAir Drainage System will play a key role in ensuring the highest standards of venue preparedness and match operations.
— ANI
Reader Comments
At this rate, Chinnaswamy and Dharamshala might be the only grounds that survive rain halting matches. Meanwhile, Chepauk and Eden Gardens are still living in the stone age of cricket infrastructure. Good move by HPCA but we need this across India - not just top venues.
As a cricket lover, this is music to my ears. SubAir system sounds like magic - 20 minutes after 12 hours of rain?! Unbelievable. Technology truly changing the game. More Indian stadiums should adopt this to avoid those frustrating washouts.
Saw the match live on TV and was impressed with how quickly things resumed. But why did it take so long for HPCA to install this? The stadium has been there for years. Better late than never I guess. Hope this sets a standard for all BCCI venues.
Biggest win for Indian cricket infrastructure! 🏏 The SubAir system is literally what saved the game. Imagine if this was the old drainage method - fans would have been heartbroken. HPCA showing others how it's done. Dharamshala is truly special!
Cricket is evolving, and SubAir is part of that future. Nice to see Dharamshala investing in technology used at top stadiums globally. England and Australia have been using similar systems for years. India is playing catch up but this is a solid step forward.
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