The majority of tourist’s coming to Sri Lanka do so
for the picture postcard beaches. For this reason we encourage
teams to play some tour matches at some of Sri Lanka’s
coastal venues. The Galle coast is world renowned for its
tourist attractions as well as its iconic stadium. While in
the deep south, the charming Matara pitch lies close to some
of the islands most idyllic coves.
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
16th Century Galle 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.
(Galle Update – No cricket is currently
being played at Galle Stadium. The turf has been removed and
a new drainage system is currently being laid. The target
is to have cricket matches back here early in 2007. Red Dot
is in frequent contact with the Galle curator, so get in touch
for the very latest developments. Posted: November 2006)
Uyanwatte Stadium, Matara
 Thank
goodness for Matara. Not only a suitable replacement for Galle
while 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 1 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.
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