Asgiriya Stadium, Kandy: The only test match venue to be owned by a school, this is a unique cricket venue in many ways. Asgiriya is owned by Trinity College, one of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious schools and producer of some of the countries great cricketers. Most recently it was Kumar Sangakkara; who has since returned to score a hundred against the Australians in 2004. Asgiriya, although a little scruffy considering its international status, has a beautiful setting. The ground is carved into a hillside and is overlooked by Kandyan peaks and a giant seated Buddha. The Buddhist Research Institute, Kandy to Colombo railway line and one of Kandy’s poorer slums all border the pitch, but this does not distract from the peacefulness of the ground. The wicket is one of the fastest in Sri Lanka and this is matched by a lightening outfield. After the game, enjoy a beer in the Old Trinitians Clubhouse that overlooks the ground.

Peradeniya Campus, Kandy: Peredeniya University provides a suitable alternative to the Asgiryia Stadium, when Asgiriya is unavailable. It is also a far cheaper option. The university ground is just outside Kandy and the pitch is formed in a natural amphitheatre. This is a great venue for a tour game and the picturesque setting makes up for the basic facilities. Naturally, most games held here are against a university side. The students are most welcoming and are fantastic hosts.

Radella Cricket Grounds, Nuwara Eliya: Perched in the hills near Nuwara Eliya and celebrated by Wisden as ‘one of the most scenic cricket grounds in the world,’ the Radella Cricket Ground is well worth the journey deep into the central highlands. Mountains clad with rows of tea bushes tower over the pitch and tea pickers will stop for a moments rest and watch the match unfold. The ground was created by British tea planters in the 1870 and a typically British pavilion completes this unique venue. The condition of the pitch is variable and the weather can be very British. Sweaters may well be needed; a welcome change to playing at Sri Lanka’s other venues.