Sri Lankan cricket reached a historic milestone as the iconic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Cricket Ground was officially illuminated under newly installed floodlights, ushering in a transformative era for one of the country’s most revered sporting venues.
The landmark inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) President, Mr. Shammi Silva, whose attendance underscored the national importance of the project. Senior officials from Sri Lanka Cricket, club administrators, former cricketers, and invited guests also graced the occasion, making it a moment of pride for Sri Lankan sport.
Symbolic First Ball Under Lights
The historic moment was marked by a ceremonial first ball bowled under lights, with Sri Lankan cricket legend Sanath Jayasuriya taking strike, delivered by national team captain Dasun Shanaka. The symbolic gesture represented the seamless blend of SSC’s rich cricketing heritage with modern infrastructure designed to meet international standards.
The installation of floodlights at SSC is part of a broader Rs. 1.7 billion infrastructure upgrade programme, implemented ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which Sri Lanka is set to co-host. For decades, SSC has been a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket, but until now had been limited to daytime matches.
World-Class Lighting Infrastructure
The newly commissioned ICC-compliant LED floodlight system consists of six high-mast towers fitted with state-of-the-art lighting technology. The system provides uniform, glare-free illumination suitable for elite international cricket and high-definition broadcast requirements, ensuring optimal visibility for players, officials, spectators, and global television audiences.
With the floodlights now fully operational, SSC will host several matches during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, including high-profile evening fixtures — a first in the ground’s long and storied history.
A Boost for Domestic, Youth and School Cricket
Beyond international cricket, the addition of floodlights is expected to significantly enhance domestic tournaments, club competitions, and premier school matches, allowing for day-night games and expanded scheduling flexibility. Cricket administrators believe the development will play a crucial role in engaging younger audiences and providing aspiring cricketers with exposure to modern playing conditions.
A Bright Future for a Historic Venue
The inauguration of floodlights at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground stands as a powerful symbol of progress — honoring tradition while embracing the future. With strong leadership from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Sri Lanka Cricket, SSC is now fully equipped to shine on the global stage, ready to host unforgettable cricketing moments under lights for generations to come.
