As the countdown begins for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, an unexpected yet fascinating chapter has emerged in the build-up to the tournament. The Netherlands Cricket team, one of the rising forces in associate cricket, has quietly completed an intensive pre-World Cup training camp not in a major cricketing hub, but in a small village in South Gujarat. This strategic move has placed the village of Pardi (Pariya) in Valsad district firmly on the global cricket map.
The Netherlands Cricket team T20 World Cup preparations officially began weeks ahead of schedule, with the team arriving in Gujarat well before the tournament kicks off on February 7, 2026. Their choice of location—Sai Meghpan Sports Stadium in Pariya village—has sparked curiosity among cricket fans, analysts, and local residents alike.
Why the Netherlands Chose a Small Village in Gujarat
Instead of opting for traditional metropolitan training centres, the Netherlands Cricket team deliberately selected Sai Meghpan Sports Stadium due to its world-class infrastructure and pitch conditions that closely resemble international venues in India. Despite being located in a small village, the stadium boasts modern facilities, well-maintained pitches, and a professional training environment suitable for international cricket teams.
According to officials close to the team, the primary objective behind this decision was early acclimatisation. With the Netherlands set to face India at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 18, understanding Indian pitch behaviour and weather conditions was considered crucial.
By training in Gujarat weeks in advance, the Netherlands Cricket team aimed to adapt to local humidity, temperatures, and pitch characteristics—an advantage often underestimated but vital in subcontinental conditions.
Eight Days of Intensive Training
The Netherlands team spent eight days at the Sai Meghpan Sports Stadium, during which eight players, along with the team coach and support staff, participated in structured training sessions. These sessions focused on batting against spin, death-over bowling strategies, and fielding drills suited to slower surfaces.
Team officials confirmed that the pitches in Pariya offered conditions similar to those expected in Ahmedabad, allowing players to simulate match scenarios effectively. The coaching staff also worked closely with players on fitness, recovery, and tactical planning specific to Indian opposition.
This early preparation reflects the growing professionalism of the Netherlands Cricket team as they aim to compete strongly in the T20 World Cup.
Media Interaction and Team Reactions
During their stay, members of the Netherlands Cricket team—including the captain and coaching staff—interacted with local media. They openly praised the stadium’s facilities, the quality of the pitches, and the welcoming nature of the local community.
Players described the atmosphere as calm yet focused, allowing them to train without distractions. The coaching staff highlighted that such environments are ideal for building team cohesion and refining skills ahead of a high-pressure global tournament.
Several players noted that training in a quieter location helped them concentrate fully on their preparations while still experiencing authentic Indian cricketing conditions.
A Stadium with International Legacy
While Sai Meghpan Sports Stadium may be located in a small village, it is no stranger to international cricket. Over the years, several international players have trained and played matches at the venue, making it a respected destination among cricketing circles.
The Netherlands Cricket team T20 World Cup camp adds another significant milestone to the stadium’s growing reputation. Local cricket authorities believe this could open doors for more international teams to consider similar destinations for training camps in the future.
Impact on the Local Community
The arrival of an international cricket team created a wave of excitement across Pariya village and surrounding areas. For many local residents, witnessing international cricketers training just a few metres away was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Young aspiring cricketers from the region flocked to the stadium, drawing inspiration from watching elite players prepare for a World Cup. Local businesses also benefited, as hotels, transport services, and vendors saw increased activity during the team’s stay.
Community leaders described the event as a proud moment, stating that the village has now earned recognition far beyond Gujarat’s borders.
Strategic Focus on the India Match
The upcoming clash between India and the Netherlands at Narendra Modi Stadium is one of the most anticipated fixtures involving the Dutch side. Facing the host nation in the world’s largest cricket stadium presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
The Netherlands Cricket team T20 World Cup strategy revolves around minimising surprises on match day. By training early in Gujarat, the team hopes to eliminate unfamiliarity with conditions and focus purely on execution.
Analysts believe this proactive approach reflects the Netherlands’ ambition to move beyond being underdogs and compete aggressively against top-tier teams.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh Officially Ruled Out as Scotland Earns Surprise Entry
Netherlands’ Growing Presence in Global Cricket
The Netherlands Cricket team has steadily gained recognition in international cricket over the past decade, particularly in the T20 format. Their participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 represents another step forward in their journey toward consistent global competitiveness.
Training in India ahead of the tournament sends a clear message: the Netherlands are not merely participating—they are preparing to perform.
A Small Village, A Global Stage
What began as a quiet training camp has now turned into a story of ambition, strategy, and global connection. The Netherlands Cricket team’s decision to train in Pariya village has transformed a local stadium into an international talking point.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, this small corner of Gujarat will be remembered as a place where global cricket briefly found a home—proving that sometimes, the road to the world stage begins far away from the spotlight.
