Construction of Jaffna International Cricket Stadium Progressing as Planned – Sri Lanka Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has confirmed that construction work on the Jaffna International Cricket Stadium (JICS) in Mandaitivu, Jaffna, is currently ongoing and progressing according to plan, reaffirming its commitment to expanding cricket infrastructure in the Northern Province.
According to an official media release issued by Sri Lanka Cricket, construction activities at the venue were temporarily halted due to the impact of the Ditwah Cyclone, which disrupted the scheduled work programme. As a result, the first trial game, which was originally scheduled to be played on 14 January 2026, had to be postponed.
SLC stated that work has now resumed at the site, with construction continuing steadily. The board further confirmed that the trial game will be conducted after the conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20I Cricket World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India.
Despite the temporary setback caused by adverse weather conditions, Sri Lanka Cricket expressed confidence in completing the project within the planned timelines, underlining the strategic importance of the stadium to the country’s long-term cricket development plans.
World-Class Facility in the Northern Province
The Jaffna International Cricket Stadium is being developed on a 48-acre site and will feature 10 centre wickets, built to international standards. The ground will also include boundary distances extending up to 80 metres, ensuring compliance with modern international cricket requirements.
The stadium is designed to host international matches, making it a significant addition to Sri Lanka’s cricketing infrastructure and a major milestone for the Northern Province.
Part of a Broader Sports City Vision
Sri Lanka Cricket highlighted that the construction of the stadium is a key component of its broader vision to develop a sports city in Jaffna, covering a total area of 138 acres. This ambitious initiative aims to create a comprehensive sports and recreational hub, contributing to regional development and youth engagement through sport.
SLC emphasized that the project aligns closely with its National Pathway Programme, which focuses on identifying, nurturing, and developing cricketing talent across all regions of the country.
A Landmark Initiative for Northern Cricket Development
Describing the project as a landmark initiative, Sri Lanka Cricket stated that the Jaffna International Cricket Stadium represents an important achievement in promoting cricket development in the Northern Province. The facility is expected to play a vital role in providing greater access to high-quality infrastructure, creating new opportunities for players, coaches, and officials from the region.
Once completed, the JICS is set to become a symbol of Sri Lanka Cricket’s commitment to inclusivity, regional development, and the long-term growth of the game across the island.
