Discover the Darren Sammy Stadium: A Cricket Enthusiast's Paradise
The Darren Sammy Stadium, formerly known as the Beausejour Stadium, is a world-class cricket stadium located in Gros Islet, St. Lucia. This state-of-the-art venue has been hosting international and domestic cricket matches since 2003. The stadium has undergone significant renovations over the years and has become one of the most sought-after destinations for cricket fans worldwide.The Beausejour Stadium: A Brief History
Opened in 2003, the Beausejour Stadium was built to host international cricket matches. It was initially designed as a multi-purpose stadium with a seating capacity of approximately 15,000.
- The stadium's construction cost was estimated at around EC$45 million (approximately USD $17 million).
- It has since undergone two major renovations – one in 2007 and another in 2014 – to improve the facility's infrastructure and increase its seating capacity.
- The Beausejour Stadium is owned by the Government of St. Lucia and operated by Cricket West Indies (CWI).
Stadium Features and Facilities
The Darren Sammy Stadium boasts an impressive array of features that cater to both players and spectators alike:
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety Nets | State-of-the-art safety nets surrounding the entire ground ensure the safety of spectators and players during matches. |
| Dressing Rooms and Facilities | Spacious, well-equipped dressing rooms for teams, along with modern amenities like showers, toilets, and medical facilities. |
| Auditiorium and Media Center | A dedicated auditorium for media personnel and a state-of-the-art media center with all necessary equipment for live broadcasts. |
Cricket Matches at the Darren Sammy Stadium
The stadium hosts various cricket matches, including:
- International Test matches
- ODI (One-Day Internationals)
- T20I (Twenty20 Internationals) matches
- Regional Super50 and Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches
Sports Events Beyond Cricket
The Darren Sammy Stadium also hosts other sports events, including:
- Volleyball and netball championships
- Concerts and live music performances
- Corporate events and functions
Accessibility and Transportation
The stadium is easily accessible by car or taxi from nearby major towns. There are also public transportation options available:
- Airport transfers to and from the stadium can be arranged through local taxi services.
- Regular bus services connect the stadium to other parts of St. Lucia, including Castries and Gros Islet town.
Accommodation Options for Cricket Fans
St. Lucia offers a wide range of accommodation options for cricket fans visiting the Darren Sammy Stadium:
- Luxury resorts like the Windjammer Landing St. Lucia Resort & Spa and the BodyHoliday LeSport
- Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns like Gros Islet and Castries
- Rental apartments and vacation homes for those looking to stay longer-term
Food and Beverage Options at the Stadium
The Darren Sammy Stadium offers a variety of food and beverage options for spectators:
- Cafeterias serving local cuisine like jerk chicken, barbecue ribs, and traditional St. Lucian dishes
- Bars offering international beers, cocktails, and soft drinks
- A variety of snack stands selling popcorn, cotton candy, and other tasty treats
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I get tickets for a cricket match at the Darren Sammy Stadium?
A: Tickets can be purchased online through the Cricket West Indies website or in-person at the stadium's box office on match day.
Q: What is the seating capacity of the stadium?
A: The Darren Sammy Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks into the stadium?
A: No, outside food and drink are not permitted inside the stadium. However, there are plenty of options available for purchase within the venue.
External Resources
- Cricket West Indies (CWI): Official website of Cricket West Indies
- Darren Sammy Stadium: Detailed information on the stadium's facilities and history
- St. Lucia Tourism Board: Official tourism board website with information on accommodations, events, and activities in St. Lucia