Sooriyawewa cricket stadium rented for weddings 

By Ashwin Hemmathagama – Our Lobby Correspondent

In an unprecedented twist of events the Sooriyawewa Cricket Stadium, which is no longer used for matches is now rented out for weddings,  Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara told Parliament.

This controversial stadium built at a cost of Rs.4,283 million and opened on 20 February 2011 was used for 11 ODI matches and nine 20/20 matches. “Until a decision is taken, the Sooriyawewa cricket stadium will be rented for weddings,” confirmed Minister Jayasekara.

 The Sooriyawewa Cricket Stadium was built by the Ports Authority and the finances were from a term loan obtained from the Bank of Ceylon. “There are issues about the way the money was spent to construct the Sooriyawewa Cricket Stadium. Several investigations are on. Last week the Prime Minister visited this area. Special instructions were issued to build facilities including hotels providing accommodations to cricket teams. We will further discuss matters with the Cricket Board and organise international cricket events at the Sooriyawewa Cricket Stadium,” added Minister Jayasekara in response to a supplementary question raised by UNP MP Hesha Withanage.