The Kia Oval (London, United Kingdom)
The Kia Oval, or the Oval as it is commonly known, is a cricket ground in south London. It is the home ground of Surrey County Cricket Club and also a venue for international cricket matches. Traditionally the last match of the summer test series is held here (in 2011 vs India on 18-22 August). It was following a defeat by Australia at the Oval in 1882 that the “ashes of English cricket”, from a burnt bail, were placed in a tiny urn, a trophy still competed for by the two countries. The ground dates from 1845 when Surrey CCC was founded, and the various county cricket format matches are played here. A prominent feature are the gasometers immediately adjacent which have been there since the 1860s, although they are scheduled for demolition. The ground is also used to present non-sporting events such as concerts. It has a capacity of 23,500 and is floodlit for evening events. Hospitality packages and conference facilities are available. The site has a shop, catering outlets and bars although there are restrictions on alcohol in the ground itself.
Contact
Surrey County Cricket Club, SE11 5SS, Telephone: +44 (207) 820 5700 | Fax: +44 (207) 735 7769 | Official site