DUBAI, June 9: The Dubai Sports City cricket stadium will open in Jan 2008 and the first international fixture could be held there as soon as March next year, The Gulf News reports.

The 25,000-capacity venue, which will be totally covered, features a roof that is able to withstand all weather conditions and even absorb dust storms and moisture besides providing a cool environment. The pitch will be suited to limited-overs cricket as soil and grass from different countries are being experimented with.

A state-of-the-art illumination called the ‘ring of fire’ will be introduced for the first time in a cricket arena.

The top-notch facilities are reserved for corporate guests and the stadium features over 50 hospitality suites with a VIP lounge are being made. There will also be a VVIP box which can seat around 70 spectators.—Agencies