Synopsis
Situated In The Heart Of Colombo, Sri Lanka, The Iconic R. Premadasa Stadium Is A Testament To The Nation’s Passion For Cricket And Extensive Athletic Heritage. This Comprehensive Book Dissects This Well-Known Stadium, Offering Detailed Accounts Of Its Design, Development, Notable Events, And Role In The Cricket Community.
The R. Premadasa International Stadium (known prior to June 1994 as the Khetterama Cricket Stadium, after the area of Colombo it stands in) was the brainchild of the late Sri Lanka President Ranasinghe Premadasa, who championed the development of this colossal 35,000-seater concrete bowl, the biggest stadium in the country. Opened on February 2, 1986 with a limited-overs match between a Sri Lanka ‘B’ side and an England ‘B’ team, the stadium was built on swampland previously used by monks ferrying across to the Khettarama temple adjacent to the stadium. The inaugural one-day international was played on April 5, 1986 between Sri Lanka and New Zealand. On August 28, 1992 it hosted its first Test between Sri Lanka and Australia. The venue is best remembered for holding the world record for the highest Test total – 952 for 6 declared by Sri Lanka against India in 1997-98, in which the former Sri Lanka captain Sanath Jayasuriya scored 340 and Roshan Mahanama 225, the pair sharing the highest partnership in Test cricket with 576 for the second wicket. A new training centre was developed behind the stadium with 16 practice pitches and dormitories for the Academy which started in 2003.
Inception And Historical Bases: The History Of R. Premadasa Stadium
Also knows as | Khettarama Stadium (until June 1994) |
Established | 1986 |
Named After | Former Sri Lanka president Ranasinghe Premadasa |
Capacity | 35,000 |
End Names | Khettarama End, Maligawatte End |
Flood Lights | Yes |
Home Teams | Sri Lanka |
Pitch | Grass |
Current Local Time | 13:47, Mon Feb 26, 2024 |
1. Origins And Naming Legacy: Discover The Background Of R. Premadasa Stadium, Including The Visionaries Who Contributed To Its Design And The Significance Of Ranasinghe Premadasa, The Former President Of Sri Lanka, Who Served As The Stadium’s Namesake.
2. Construction And Opening: Explore The Process Of Constructing The Stadium, Shedding Light On The Architectural Marvels That Were Used R. Premadasa Stadium Serves As More Than Just A Location For To Construct This Sporting Facility. Discover The Momentous Firsts That Marked The Beginning Of A New Chapter In The History Of Sri Lankan Cricket.
Architectural Mastery: The Design Elements Of R. Premadasa Stadium
The Premadasa Stadium underwent a reconstruction project in preparation for the 2011 Cricket World Cup. The stadium has been undergoing large-scale renovations since 2009. It has had its seating capacity increase from 14,000 to 40,000, the media box accommodating 200 journalists, and other upgrades. The renovations have cost Sri Lanka Cricket $8 million.[3]
In July 2010, a report filed by the ICC pitch consultant, Andy Atkinson, raised concerns over the condition of the outfield and the pitch claiming he was worried at the slow pace of progress.[4] Although none of the buildings at the stadium was near completion, the 2nd Test of the West Indies tour of Sri Lanka in 2010, was held at the venue in 23–27 November. Sri Lanka Cricket defended choosing the stadium saying that the decision to stage a game was to allow cricketers to acclimatize themselves to the ground ahead of the World Cup games.[5] The Test match was staged using temporary seating for spectators in a corner of the stadium as only players’ pavilions had permanent arrangements. Since the press box was not completed reporters and commentators facing technical difficulties used a makeshift arrangement.
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Renovated Pavilion B
The main four public stands were refurbished along with the player dressing room area and the corporate boxes. A VIP car park is at the northern end of the ground.
Stadium plan[edit]
Pavilions A and B are fully equipped with seating in two tiers, lower and higher. Several corporate boxes are built in these two stands. Pavilions C and D are built between the scoreboard in the stadium with a two-tiered seating system. The lower tiers have concrete paving allocated for floor seating and the upper tier includes fully standard seating blocks. The grandstand and top-level block above the player pavilions have enhanced quality seating. Pavilions A and B give a moderate view of the scoreboard while the grandstand not only gives a good view of the scoreboard but also the game and pitch.
1. Modern Design Elements: Examine The Modern Design Components Of R. Premadasa Stadium. Acknowledge The Outstanding Architectural Design That Enhances The Viewing Experience, From The Well-Placed Floodlights To The Seating Arrangements.
2. Capacity And Facilities: Look At The Seating Arrangements, Hospitality Rooms, And Other Elements Of The Stadium That Contribute To Making It A Great Place For Players And Spectators Alike.
Cricketing Magnificence: Coordinating Domestic And Global Events
1. International Cricket Events: Experience The Past Of Cricket Matches Held At R. Premadasa Stadium By Going Back In Time. Everything From The Gripping T20s And Odis To The Spectacular Test Experience To Relive The Historical Occurrences That Have Happened On This Hallowed Ground.
2. Domestic Cricket And Tournaments: Visit R. Premadasa Stadium To Learn About The Evolution Of Domestic Cricket. Look At All Of The Regional And National Tournaments That Have Made Their Mark There.
Priceless Cricket Reminiscences: The Stadium Hall Of Fame
1. Notable Achievements And Records: Examine The Historical Achievements And Cricket Records That Echo Through R. Premadasa Stadium. Discover Bowling Legends And Noteworthy Bowling Performances In The Stadium’s Hall Of Fame.
2. Notable Games And Events: Think Back On The Most Memorable Matches And Occasions That R. Premadasa Stadium Hosted. With Exciting Denouements And Unforgettable Experiences, Each Game Adds A New Chapter To The Arena’s Illustrious History.
Cultural Significance: Exceeding Cricket’s Glory
1. Concerts & Cultural Events: Learn About The Significance Of R. Premadasa Stadium For Cultures Other Than Cricket. See How The Venue Has Grown Into A Main Attraction For Musical Events, Cultural Celebrations, And Gatherings Celebrating Sri Lanka’s Vibrant Past.
2. Community Engagement Projects: Find Out What Outreach Initiatives, Sports Development Initiatives, And Neighborhood Engagement Programs The Stadium Is Involved In.
Maintenance And Grounds: Preserving The Sporting Jewel
1. Careful Groundskeeping Practices: Be Aware Of The Meticulous Groundskeeping Practices That Keep R. Premadasa Stadium In Top Condition. The Stadium Is Made More Appealing By Every Little Thing, From Pitch Preparation To Outfield Maintenance.
2. Renovations And Upgrades: Look Into Any Alterations Or Additions Made To Keep The Stadium Compliant With International Standards. These Actions, Which Ensure The Stadium’s Continued Relevance With Improvements That Vary From Structural To Technological.
The Fan Experience: The Pulse Of R. Premadasa Stadium’
1. Dedicated Fans Of Cricket: Enjoy The Vibrant Atmosphere That The Passionate Cricket Fans At R. Premadasa Stadium Have Created. Acknowledge How The Crowd’s Roar And Teams’ Cheers Contribute To The Exhilarating Environment.
2. Guidelines For Ticketing And Observers: Find Out About The Rules Pertaining To R. Premadasa Stadium Ticket Sales And Spectator Conduct. Learn How The Stadium’s Management Ensures That Every Guest Has A Pleasant And Secure Visit.
Development Prospects And Plans: Sustaining Excellence
1. Future Vision: Consider What R. Premadasa Stadium Might Look Like In The Future. Acknowledge Any Development Objectives Or Plans Aimed At Enhancing The Stadium’s Status Within The Cricket World.
2. Sustainable Practices: Look At The Sustainability Initiatives Of The R. Premadasa Stadium. Learn How The Stadium Conforms With Modern Sustainability Criteria In Terms Of Community Involvement And Eco-Friendly Operations.
A Visitors’ Guide: Directions To R. Premadasa Stadium
1. Availability And Transportation: Provide Guests With A Comprehensive Guide That Covers Accessibility Options For Both Domestic And International Cricket Fans, As Well As Directions To R. Premadasa Stadium.
2. Services & Amenities At Stadiums: Enumerate All Of The Amenities That Are Available Within The Stadium, Including Food And Beverage Options, Restrooms, And Other Features That Enhance Visitors’ Experiences In General.
Sum Up: R. Premadasa Stadium: A Gem Of Exceptional Cricketing Achievement
The Venue R. Premadasa Serves As A Symbol Of Sri Lanka’s Dynamic Culture And Athletic Prowess, As Well As A Place To Host Thrilling Cricket Matches. From Its Magnificent Architecture To The Significant Memories Etched Into Its Grounds, The Stadium Is A Monument To The Country’s Love Of Cricket And A Symbol Of Cricketing Power. R. Premadasa Stadium Is Still Regarded As A Priceless Treasure Among International Cricket Stadiums Because Of Its Innovative Ideas And Eco-Friendly Construction Practices That Welcome The Future.