It’s up there with the best grounds of the world – The Royal Challengers sum up the beauty of Dharamsala

In less than 24 hours, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be hitting the yard again as they lock horns with the Punjab Kings in another crucial encounter. The last time these two teams met, RCB walked away with the bragging rights, courtesy of an electric finish from Dinesh Karthik and Mahipal Lomror.

Despite this being a home game for Punjab, instead of Mohali, the clash is going to be played in the picturesque Dharamsala. For all the players in India and beyond, this venue has always been special. Stationed right in the lap of the beautiful mountains, Dharamsala serves as the epicenter of some thrilling cricketing action while the pleasant and cooler weather is an absolute bonus.

In the latest episode of RCB Bold Diaries, the Royal Challengers opened up on the beauty of the stadium and other aspects of the game which are going to be critical going forward in this fixture.

Reece Topley said, “Probably one of the most picturesque grounds I have ever been to.” Faf du Plessis said, “It’s one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the world. It’s so unique when you get here that when you get here and are walking out of the changing rooms, you have got a smile on your face by being here. Been here already seven or eight times, and even today, I walk out here and I am like wowed by nature and how amazing it is, so it’s up there with the best grounds of the world.”

Will Jacks said, “It’s amazing. It’s obviously pretty special seeing the mountains like that, coming from cities that we’ve all been in the last two months. It’s absolutely amazing, It’s my first time here. I’m really excited to play.” Rajat Patidar said, “It’s an amazing moment here, especially the mountains which you get to see when you walk in. There is snow as well, so it’s quite nice.”

Akash Deep said, “It feels like heaven. After coming here I feel that we have come out of our country to play somewhere. It’s fun here.” Karn Sharma said, “It’s an iconic stadium, one of the most beautiful stadiums of the world. I have played Ranji Trophy here. Every time I come here, I feel very fresh, the fresh air, Himalayas.”

Cameron Green said, “Yeah, obviously a pretty special ground. I haven’t been here before. I think this time of the day is beautiful because it’s dark at the ground and basically the mountains all lit up.” Mahipal Lomror said, “This is the first time I have come here and I really like the mountains. I feel like I should be staying here, wander about and play here only.”

The home boy, Mayank Dagar said, “Playing here for RCB, feels special. Of course, I have played for Himachal, so this is my home ground and you can just see the beauty of this ground. I think none can match the beauty of this stadium.”