Pakistan and Sri Lanka share a cricket story that few other countries can match. Sri Lanka won its only World Cup at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium in 1996. And in December 2019, Sri Lanka played the first Test match in Pakistan for ten years, at Rawalpindi. For Pakistani fans, watching cricket in Sri Lanka feels like visiting a friend.
The grounds to visit
Galle International Stadium
Few grounds in the world are as beautiful as Galle. The stadium sits between the Indian Ocean and the walls of the 17th-century Galle Fort, and fans without tickets climb the ramparts to watch for free. Spinners love the pitch, and Test matches here often finish with drama on the fourth or fifth day.
R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Sri Lanka's biggest ground hosts most night matches and white-ball games. The atmosphere under lights is loud and joyful.
SSC and P. Sara Oval, Colombo
The Sinhalese Sports Club ground is the home of Sri Lankan Test cricket in the capital, while the P. Sara Oval is the oldest Test venue in the country and full of history.
Pallekele, near Kandy
Surrounded by green hills, Pallekele is a short drive from Kandy, so you can combine a match with the Temple of the Tooth and the hill country.
Dambulla and Hambantota
Rangiri Dambulla stadium lies close to Sigiriya and the Dambulla cave temples. In the south, the stadium near Hambantota is a good base for Yala safaris.
The atmosphere
Sri Lankan crowds are famous for their papare bands, brass and drum groups that play baila music all day long. Fans of both sides dance together, and Pakistani supporters are warmly welcomed. Away from the stadiums, you will see tape-ball and softball cricket on every beach, school ground and side street. Join a game and you will make friends fast.
Tickets and timing
- Tickets: buy through Sri Lanka Cricket's official channels or at the ground. Big matches against Pakistan or India sell out quickly.
- Weather: Galle and Colombo get the south-west monsoon from about May to September, so rain can interrupt matches. Pallekele and Dambulla have their own wet seasons too.
- Heat: day matches are hot and humid. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Practical tips for Pakistani fans
- Flights: SriLankan Airlines flies nonstop from Karachi and Lahore to Colombo. Check current schedules.
- ETA: Pakistani passport holders currently get a free ETA. Apply at eta.gov.lk before you travel.
- Food: halal food is easy to find, and Sri Lankan biryani and kottu are perfect after a long day at the ground.
- Getting around: Colombo to Galle is about 2 hours on the Southern Expressway. Colombo to Kandy takes about 3 to 4 hours by car.
- Money: one US dollar is roughly LKR 300.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Sri Lanka win the 1996 World Cup?
At the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, where Sri Lanka beat Australia in the final. It is a big reason many Sri Lankans feel close to Pakistan.
Can you watch cricket for free at Galle?
Many fans watch from the walls of Galle Fort, which overlook the ground. For a proper seat and facilities, buy a ticket.
What is the best month to watch cricket in Sri Lanka?
December to April is usually driest for Galle and Colombo. The fixture list changes each year, so check Sri Lanka Cricket's schedule first.
Do Pakistanis need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Pakistani citizens need an ETA, which is currently free. Apply online at eta.gov.lk before you travel.
