Panadura Esplanade, Panadura: Panadura is 25km south of Colombo. It is one of Red Dot’s favourite venues, and a match here fits well into an itinerary if a club is heading to the Galle coast. This slightly scruffy venue is full of character and it is a delight to play cricket here. The square is good and although the changing rooms are basic, there is a well stocked bar. The ground is in the middle of this busy town so your visit will undoubtedly attract a great deal of attention from the local community and in the past, the Mayor of Panadura has personally welcomed touring teams with the usual fuss and photo shoots.

Galle International Stadium, Galle: Considered to be one of the world’s most spectacular cricketing pitches, the Galle Stadium is an inspirational tour venue. The ground is flanked by the Indian Ocean and with the impressive 17th Century Dutch Fort behind the bowlers at one end, you could not imagine a more stunning environment in which to enjoy a cricket match. However, the 2004 tsunami caused considerable damage to the ground, as it did to the entire region. The outfield was covered in wreckage and it was thought cricket would never return to Galle. But thanks to the global cricket community responding, most notably Shane Warne who took his 500th wicket at the ground, the ground is being restored to its former glory. The ground has witnessed some of Sri Lanka’s finest moments; Muralitharan will be relishing the thought of returning to this ground having taken 87 wickets in 11 matches here. This venue will raise any amateur cricketer’s game and will go down as a highlight in any cricketing career. Galle is a fantastic destination for a touring side. The Galle Fort is a unique place to stay, alternatively you may opt for the nearby Unawatuna, with its cheap accommodation, stunning beach and lively beach bars.

Uyanwatte Stadium, Matara: Thank goodness for Matara. Not only a suitable replacement for Galle whiles its out of action, it also allows touring teams to play cricket near to the beautiful southern beaches. Although the facilities are a little rustic, this is a great cricket venue. The sea breeze is a welcome relief – and Matara love hosting teams from overseas. If you are lucky, a local dignitary will be presented to you as well as the usual press photo shoot. The ground often hosts international warm up matches and the square has been known to produce lots of runs and plenty of spin. Matara is around one hours drive from Galle, and it is recommended teams stay on Unawatuna beach or at Dikwella. Either way, the team accommodation will be on some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Beach cricket, fresh seafood and water sports may prove a distraction, however.

The Seenigama Oval, near Hikkaduwa: The Seenigama Oval was opened in 2006. This is a remarkable facility built by the Foundation of Goodness on a site devastated by the 2004 tsunami. The ground was constructed with funds from Surrey County Cricket Club. Although there is no turf square, the facilities are excellent with a modern artificial pitch, a well-manicured outfield, large scoreboard and a spacious clubhouse. There is an excellent accommodation centre offering dormitory-style accommodation for children and a large swimming pool. When touring teams visit you can be sure of a grand welcome with lots of music, fun and camaraderie.