The opening ceremony of the first phase of the Polonnaruwa National Cricket Stadium took place today (18th).
This new stadium was constructed under the Sri Lanka Cricket “National Development Pathway” program, which aims to provide equal opportunities for talented cricketers to represent the national team.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Tourism, Lands, Sports and Youth Affairs Harin Fernando, Sri Lanka, and former President Maithripala Sirisena and Cricket Board Chairman Shammi Silva,
Sri Lanka cricket spent a total of 170 million for the construction of the stadium, which addresses the long-standing need for a national stadium in the North Central Province. The stadium, located on 45 acres in Higurakgoda, Polonnaruwa, features 10 grass strips and an 80-meter boundary around the main grass strip, making it a significant facility for cricket development.
The Polonnaruwa National Cricket Stadium is set to benefit cricketers from the districts of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Matale, as well as from Batticaloa, Ampara, and Trincomalee in the Eastern Province. This facility will help these players enhance their skills under the North Central Province Cricket Association.
In addition, to promote sports skills among rural players, sporting goods were distributed to 12 schools and 10 sports associations as part of the “taking sports to the village” initiative led by Sports Minister Mr. Harin Fernando. (Sports Ministry)
