AKD kicks off SLC-led work on Jaffna International Cricket Stadium

Tuesday, 2 September 2025 03:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Disanayake laying foundation stone for the Jaffna International Cricket Stadium

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) yesterday laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Jaffna International Cricket Stadium (JICS) in Mandaitivu, Jaffna.

The ceremony was graced by the President of Sri Lanka Anura Kumara Disanayake, with the participation of the Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage, at the invitation of Sri Lanka Cricket President Shammi Silva.

The Jaffna International Cricket Stadium will become the country’s seventh international cricket venue and the fifth stadium equipped with floodlights.

The construction of the stadium forms part of SLC’s broader vision to establish a Sports City in Jaffna, spanning 138 acres. Once completed, the Sports City will include a swimming pool complex, a multi-sport indoor arena, star-class hotels and restaurants, a shopping mall and entertainment facilities, among many others.

The international cricket ground will be built across 48 acres, featuring 10 centre wickets with boundary distance extending up to 80 metres, exceeding international standards. The venue will have a spectator capacity of 40,000, positioning it as a premier cricket destination in the region.

This landmark initiative marks a significant step in promoting cricket development in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. It complements SLC’s National Pathway Program, which is dedicated to creating equal opportunities for talented cricketers across the island to rise through the ranks and represent the national team.

Members of the Sri Lanka Cricket Executive Committee and the SLC Management were present during the occasion.