Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka, the R. Premadasa Stadium stands as a testament to the nation’s rich cricketing heritage. This exploration unveils the stadium’s historical significance, architectural marvels, memorable cricketing moments, and its role in fostering a passionate cricket culture.
Step 1: Inception and Significance
Origins of R. Premadasa Stadium: This section delves into the origins of the stadium, named after the former President of Sri Lanka, Ranasinghe Premadasa, and its symbolic role in commemorating the nation’s dedication to cricket.
Historical Significance: Understanding the historical significance of R. Premadasa Stadium in the context of Sri Lanka’s cricketing journey provides context for the stadium’s evolution as a cricketing colosseum.
Step 2: Architectural Marvels
Architectural Overview: Exploring the architectural nuances and design principles behind R. Premadasa Stadium showcases the vision and craftsmanship that went into creating a modern and iconic cricketing venue.
Capacity and Facilities: Details about the stadium’s seating capacity, facilities, and amenities provide a comprehensive picture of the spectator experience, elevating it beyond a mere sports venue.
Step 3: Cricketing Moments and Milestones
Memorable Matches: Highlighting iconic cricket matches held at R. Premadasa Stadium, such as World Cup encounters and historic victories, immortalizes the venue as a witness to cricketing glory.
Individual Performances: Celebrating individual performances and milestones achieved on this hallowed ground adds a layer of personal narratives to the stadium’s illustrious history.
Step 4: Fan Culture and Atmosphere
Passionate Cricket Culture: Exploring the passionate cricket culture nurtured by R. Premadasa Stadium provides insights into how the venue has become a pilgrimage site for ardent cricket enthusiasts.
Fan Engagement Initiatives: Details about fan engagement initiatives, such as fan zones and interactive activities, shed light on the efforts to enhance the overall spectator experience.
Step 5: Future Developments and Global Impact
Upcoming Tournaments and Events: Previewing upcoming cricket tournaments and events scheduled at R. Premadasa Stadium reveals its ongoing role as a hub for international cricket.
Global Recognition: Analyzing the global recognition and acclaim garnered by R. Premadasa Stadium establishes its status as more than just a national treasure, but a renowned cricketing venue on the world stage.
| 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 | 16:34, Fri Feb 23, 2024 |
R Premadasa ODI records and stats
Highest team total
The Indian cricket team holds the record for the highest team total at the R Premadasa Stadium in ODI cricket. During the fourth ODI of India’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2017, the Virat Kohli-led side posted a huge total of 375/5 in their 50 overs. Rohit Sharma scored 104, while Kohli smashed a 96-ball 131 to help India register a record ODI total at the venue. India later bowled out Sri Lanka for 207 in 42.4 overs to secure a massive 168-run victory in Colombo. India whitewashed Sri Lanka 5-0 in the five-match ODI series.
Lowest team total
The Netherlands national cricket team hold the record for the lowest team total at the R Premadasa Stadium in ODI format. Chasing 293 against hosts Sri Lanka during an ICC Champions Trophy clash in 2002, Netherlands were bundled out for 86 in 29.3 overs. Tim de Leede top-scored for Netherlands with 31. For Sri Lanka, Muthiah Muralidaran was the wrecker-in-chief as he picked four wickets for 15 runs in his 5.3 overs. Earlier, Marvan Atapattu’s century (101) powered Sri Lanka to 292/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Sri Lanka won the match by 206 runs.
Most runs
Former Sri Lankan cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya holds the record for the most runs at this venue in ODI cricket. Between 1992 and 2009, the flamboyant left-hander amassed 2,514 runs in 71 matches at an average of 38.67 and a strike rate of 89.37. He slammed four hundreds and 19 fifties in the ODI format at this ground. Another Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara is second on the list with 2,156 runs in 62 ODI matches on this ground.
Most wickets
Legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Muthiah Muralidaran bagged the most wickets at the R Premadasa Stadium in ODI cricket. The former off-spinner picked up 75 wickets in 57 matches at an average of 26.33 and an economy of 3.86. He registered best bowling figures of 5/44 on this ground in the ODI format. Former all-rounder Sanath Jayasuriya features second on the list with 60 wickets in 71 ODIs.
Highest individual score
Kumar Sangakkara holds the record for the highest individual score at this venue in the ODI format. The southpaw scored 169 off 137 balls during the first ODI of South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2013. Sangakkara’s scintillating knock helped the hosts post 320/5 in their 50 overs. His knock was laced with 18 fours and six maximums. Chasing 321, South Africa were skittled out for 140 in 31.5 overs as the hosts registered a 180-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Best bowling figures
Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews holds the record for the best bowling figures at the R Premadasa Stadium in ODI cricket. During the third match of a tri-series featuring Sri Lanka, India and New Zealand in 2009, Mathews registered match-winning figures of 6/20 against India to guide the hosts to a 139-run win. Sri Lanka rode on Mathews’ impressive spell to bowl out India for 168 in their chase of 308. Earlier, Sanath Jayasuriya (98) and Thilina Kandamby (91) helped Sri Lanka post 307/6 in their 50 overs.
Highest partnership
Former India cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly hold the record for the highest partnership at the R Premadasa Stadium in the ODI format. Electing to bat first against Sri Lanka in the Singer-Akai Nidahas Trophy final in 1998, Tendulkar and Ganguly forged a massive 252-run stand for the opening wicket. Ganguly’s 109 and Tendulkar’s 128 powered India to 307/6 in 50 overs. India later bowled out Sri Lanka for 301 in 49.3 overs to register a nail-biting six-run victory.
R Premadasa Stadium Boundaries
The R Premadasa has relatively standard international dimensions. The straight boundaries are about 60 meters long, while the square boundaries extend up to 80 meters.
These are large enough to challenge the big hitters, but small enough to keep sixes in play. The outfield is also quick, allowing well-timed shots to reach the ropes.
R Premadasa Stadium Asia Cup Match Schedule 2023
| Teams | Format | Date and Day | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| B1 vs B2, Super Four | T20 | Saturday 09 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
| A1 vs A2, Super Four | T20 | Sunday 10 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
| A2 vs B1, Super Four | ODI | Tuesday 12 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
| A1 vs B1, Super Four | ODI | Thursday 14 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
| A2 vs B2, Super Four | ODI | Friday 15 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
| Asia Cup Final | ODI | Sunday 17 September 2023 | 2 PM Local |
R Premadasa Stadium Asia Cup 2023 Ticket Price and Booking Details
| Enclosure | B2 vs B1 | A2 vs B1 | A1 vs B1 | A2 vs B2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Block A: Lower Level | 20$ | 20$ | 20$ | 25$ |
| Block A: Upper Level | 25$ | 45$ | 25$ | 45$ |
| Block B: Lower Level | 20$ | 25$ | 20$ | 25$ |
| Block B: Upper Level | 25$ | 45$ | 25$ | 45$ |
| Block C: Lower Level | 10$ | 20$ | 10$ | 20$ |
| Block C: Upper Level | 15$ | 40$ | 15$ | 40$ |
| Block D: Lower Level | 10$ | 20$ | 10$ | 20$ |
| Block D: Upper Level | 15$ | 40$ | 15$ | 40$ |
| Grand Stand, Top Level | 35$ | 50$ | 35$ | 50$ |
| Sight Screen North: Level 4, Corporate Box 4-D | 200$ | 400$ | 200$ | 400$ |
| Sight Screen North: Level 4, Corporate Box 4-E | 200$ | 400$ | 200$ | 400$ |
Conclusion
R. Premadasa Stadium transcends its architectural grandeur and historical roots to embody the soul of Sri Lankan cricket. From witnessing cricketing milestones to fostering a vibrant fan culture, the stadium continues to be a source of national pride. As it stands poised for future tournaments and global acclaim, R. Premadasa Stadium remains a colosseum where cricketing dreams and national identity converge, etching its place in the annals of cricketing history.
