150 Could Be a Winning Score
Inside the Pitches at Gelephu International Cricket Ground
As Bhutan prepares to host the Lotus Cup 2026 Women’s T20 Tri-Series, attention is firmly fixed on the conditions at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground, the venue set to welcome Hong Kong (China) and Malaysia alongside the host nation.
In a brief interaction, Amber Bdr. Rai, National Curator of the Gelephu International Cricket Ground, shared key insights into the playing surfaces that will define the tournament. According to Rai, three pitches have been selected for use during the competition and are showing encouraging signs ahead of the first ball.
Despite winter conditions and no rainfall over the past three months, the pitches have remained stable. Rai noted that the cracks are minimal, even with the surface leaning towards the drier side. These conditions, he believes, will offer a fair contest between bat and ball.
“A total of around 150 runs could be a winning score on these pitches,” Rai said, highlighting the importance of disciplined batting and smart bowling throughout the tournament. While the surface may appear predictable on paper, he was quick to add that cricket is never short of surprises and conditions can still change match by match.
The outfield is fast, allowing well-timed shots to race to the boundary, and the ground continues to maintain natural grass, adding to both the quality and character of the venue.
With preparations in place and conditions promising competitive cricket, the Gelephu International Cricket Ground is ready to take centre stage. As Bhutan hosts international women’s cricket once again, the Lotus Cup 2026 is set to deliver exciting contests, testing skills, strategy, and adaptability in equal measure.