Antigua, Debasis Sen: If you are a passionate cricket lover and have travelled to Antigua to watch the ground where West Indies legends like Sir Viv Richards and Brian Lara has set many records, you will be in for a reality shock.
The famous Antigua Recreation Ground, known locally as the ARG is in a sorry state. The ground no more hosts any cricket matches since 2007. Regarded as the national stadium of Antigua and Barbuda, the ground has seen many records being set over the years. One that stands tall were the famous 375* and 400 scored by Brian Charles Lara against England in 1994 & 2004 respectively. Antigua’s favourite son Sir Viv Richards also scored his fastest hundred in test cricket at this very ground.
The ground which primarily hosted cricket matches was abandoned by West Indies Cricket Board during the build up to the 2007 World Cup. The decision was made to abandon the Recreation Ground and create a purpose-built ground some way from the capital. This was unpopular and, to many, epitomised the priority given to finances over common sense. Whereas the Recreation Ground was popular and atmospheric, the new venue was the opposite. The old ground continued to host other events but quickly fell into disrepair.
As one enters the stadium, the eyes will draw the attention to the famous Andy Roberts stand, Viv Richards Pavilion which was once the centre of all action during the golden days of West Indies cricket. The steel bands kept the crowd groovy with their foot tapping music.
The Recreation ground will be the host to the weeklong Antigua and Barbuda carnival which started from yesterday. The carnival which is in its 60th year will go on till August 02. The carnival is a spectacle of colour, fun, and excitement waiting to unfold in the coming days. Melodic music with infectious beats and pretty, creative costumes are just a taste of what you can expect.
The island which has a population of 80000 odd people unites during the carnival, giving it the status of a national event. The ground which was established in 1981 was the home of Leeward Islands cricket team.
The ground which once boasted of having the best atmosphere during a cricket match, stands isolated from the modern day cricket. That in itself speaks about the sorry state of affairs the West Indies cricket is passing through.