The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) Stadium — popularly known as the Barsapara Cricket Stadium or Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium — is the pride of Northeast Indian cricket. Since making its international debut in 2017, the venue has steadily grown in stature.
In November 2025, it reached a historic milestone by becoming India’s 30th Test venue. That moment firmly placed Guwahati on the elite cricketing map. As of early 2026, the stadium is one of the most in-demand venues for international matches and IPL fixtures, serving as the second home ground of the Rajasthan Royals.
1. Assam Cricket Association Stadium Layout and Architecture
The ACA Stadium is built on what was once a landfill site — a remarkable transformation into a modern sports facility. The structure follows a circular bowl design, offering balanced sightlines from all sides.
Because Guwahati experiences heavy rainfall and humidity, the architecture was tailored to suit the region’s environmental conditions. Proper drainage gradients, elevated seating, and wind flow planning were incorporated into the design.
Key Stands and Pavilions
1. South Stand
The most premium section of the stadium. It offers the best pitch views and typically carries the highest ticket prices.
2. North Stand
Opposite the South Stand, this section offers excellent visibility and houses multiple corporate boxes.
3. West Stand
Traditionally the most affordable seating zone. It often includes designated student blocks, making it popular among young fans.
4. East Stand
A high-energy section favored by general spectators. It is known for creating strong crowd atmosphere during IPL games.
5. Club House
A state-of-the-art administrative building that was completed during the second construction phase. It serves as the VVIP area and ACA headquarters.
The layout feels open and symmetrical, yet intimate enough to amplify crowd noise.
2. Assam Cricket Association Stadium Capacity
Total Structural Capacity: Approximately 46,000
Effective Seating Capacity: Around 40,000 for major T20Is and IPL matches
Although the stadium can technically accommodate up to 46,000 spectators, high-profile matches are often capped at around 40,000 to ensure smoother entry, exit, and crowd management.
Even with moderated attendance, the bowl design traps sound effectively. When full, the atmosphere feels electric.
3. Gates and Access Points
For major 2026 events, six entry gates are typically designated in coordination with the Guwahati Traffic Police.
1. Gate 1A
Reserved for competing teams, match officials (PMOA), and international dignitaries.
2. Gate 1B
Entry point for VVIP car pass holders and commentators.
3. Gates 2–6
Main access points for general ticket holders, distributed to avoid congestion.
4. Entry Direction Guidance
- Fans arriving via Barsapara Tiniali usually use southern or western gates.
- Those coming from Dhirenpara or A.K. Azad Road are directed toward northern and eastern gates.
5. Transport
Guwahati Railway Station is the closest major rail hub. On match days, A.K. Azad Road often becomes one-way (from Lal Ganesh toward Cycle Factory) to manage traffic flow.
Public transport and app-based taxis are recommended, as parking near the stadium perimeter is restricted.
4. Modern Facilities
The stadium has evolved significantly over the past two years.
1. Red-Ball Ready Infrastructure
In November 2025, the stadium successfully hosted the India vs South Africa 2nd Test match. Due to the Northeast’s early sunrise, play began at 9:00 AM, showing the venue’s adaptability for five-day cricket.
2. High-Tech Drainage
The stadium features a sand-based outfield and a sophisticated drainage system built to handle Guwahati’s heavy monsoon rains. Water clears quickly, reducing match interruptions.
3. Dedicated Practice Ground
Barsapara has a separate practice facility with 10 pitches. This allows teams to train without affecting the main square — a feature not common in many Indian venues.
4. LED Lighting
The stadium uses high-intensity LED floodlights that support 4K broadcasting. During T20 matches, synchronized light shows enhance the entertainment factor.
The infrastructure upgrades have positioned it among India’s most modern mid-sized cricket venues.
5. Assam Cricket Association Stadium Ticket Pricing
Ticket pricing is designed to be inclusive, reflecting Guwahati’s strong student population.
1. Student Special
- West Stand 2nd Floor
- ₹475 – ₹500
2. General Public
- East / West Lower Stands
- ₹1,000 – ₹2,000
3. Mid-Tier
- North / South 2nd Floor
- ₹3,000 – ₹4,000
4. Premium
- South Stand 1st Floor
- ₹6,000+
Tickets are primarily sold through BookMyShow. For the India vs New Zealand 3rd T20I in January 2026, tickets went live on New Year’s Day and sold out almost immediately.
Demand has consistently outpaced supply.
Prohibited Items and Guidelines
Security checks follow strict BCCI guidelines.
1. Banned Items: Backpacks, power banks, umbrellas, coins, lighters, and outside food.
2. Allowed: Mobile phones and wallets only.
3. Parking: No parking is permitted on Kula Basumatary Road near the stadium. Fans must use designated parking areas such as Champabati Field, Rolling Mill Field, or Vishal Marriage Hall, located approximately 0.8 to 2 km away.
Walking from parking zones is common, so comfortable footwear is advised.
4. Climate Advice: During January and February matches, evening temperatures in Guwahati can drop noticeably. Carrying a light sweater is recommended, especially for night games.
Major Events
1. January 25, 2026
Hosted the 3rd T20I between India and New Zealand.
2. IPL 2026
Confirmed to host at least two Rajasthan Royals home matches, typically scheduled in late April or May.
3. ICC Events
The venue has also hosted ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup qualifiers and warm-up matches, strengthening its global credentials.
Conclusion
The ACA Stadium in Guwahati represents more than just cricket infrastructure. It symbolizes the rise of Northeast India in the national sporting landscape.
From hosting its first Test match to attracting IPL crowds and international fixtures, the stadium has matured quickly. With strong infrastructure, inclusive pricing, and growing demand, Barsapara has secured its place in India’s cricketing future.
For fans in the Northeast, this is not just a stadium. It is a statement.
