Edgbaston: It’s Just Different

We asked fans to capture the essence of what makes Edgbaston great. What they said was simple. It’s just different.

When you step foot inside the 140-year-old stadium, it’s an experience like no other in world cricket.

The welcome. The atmosphere. The famous Eric Hollies Stand, 5,000 strong always backing their team. Home of the Barmy Army and the biggest moments. Food, fun and laughter. And in our opinion, the best fans.

This is where cricket history happens. That epic 2005 Ashes Test. Brian Lara’s record-breaking 501*. England beating the old rivals in a World Cup semi-final. Record Women’s internationals. Edgbaston is cricket magic.

And that atmosphere. Edgbaston’s crowd isn’t there to just watch – they’re there to cheer, chant and dress in wacky costumes. They are the extra player giving the home team the edge.

But more than that – for the people of Birmingham, Edgbaston is a local treasure. Fans from all walks of life there for one reason – Edgbaston is the people’s home of cricket.

And it’s not just the fans that think so. The games biggest players love it too.

“It’s one of the best stadium’s for atmosphere I’ve played at. We’ve played here during the Commonwealth Games, the crowds are big and it feels like the new normal.”

Heather Knight, England Women’s Captain

“There is something very special about Test cricket in Birmingham. The culture is unique. Test cricket there has an amazing atmosphere like nowhere else in the world, and nowhere more than at Edgbaston. It’s phenomenal.”

Allan Donald, South Africa cricketing legend

“On a world level I would put it up there with Eden Gardens in Calcutta, which holds about 100,000. It inspires a team. It’s like having another man in your side.”

Alec Stewart, Former England Men’s Captain

“This, in terms of atmosphere, is the best place to play cricket. It gives you goosebumps. They are our twelfth man. That’s why it’s our fortress.”

Ben Stokes, England Men’s Test Captain

Edgbaston isn’t just another cricket stadium. It’s an experience. It’s for the fans. It’s where cricket comes to life. It’s just different.

Birmingham is set to host another packed summer of men’s and women’s cricket in 2025, including the highly anticipated Men’s Rothesay Test between England and India.

Edgbaston is the place to be.