A Celebration of Sri Lanka and its cricket

It was my last day in the Island Nation. As the sun set on my vacation, I was preparing to go back with an unfulfilled dream. Even though I had managed to visit the Galle cricket stadium, a few other cricket grounds and libraries where I could get cricket books from were left to be covered. If you don't know this about me, I love collecting cricket books, reading about the history of the game and visiting various stadiums across the world. I believe cricket, culture and community go together and this is my way of connecting with the game.

I somehow managed to sneak in some time before my flight. Colombo is hot and humid. Slightly busy too. But that didn't deter me from taking a ride to the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) cricket ground. I went with the anticipation of seeing the iconic ground which is referred to as the 'Lord's of Sri Lanka' and has hosted landmark matches, such as Sri Lanka's inaugural Test in 1984. The stadium also has been part of Sri Lanka cricket folklore with Chaminda Vaas claiming a world record by taking 8 wickets for 19 runs against Zimbabwe in an ODI, the best bowling figures in Men's ODI history.

When I reached there, I noticed a big entrance just adjacent to the stadium entrance that read "Sri Lanka Cricket Museum". A Museum? When all I want to see is the iconic stadium.

Picture Source: Lakshit Singhal/Cricket Field Chronicles

Curiosity takes over and I ask the guard if it is open to visitors. They allow me after paying an entry fee. As I opened the gate and took the first step inside, I felt a shift in energy. The place breathed cricket. I haven't been to many places like this. I have been to World Cup games. I have also been to a World Cup Final in Ahmedabad. Being in a stadium with thousand of fans is a pulsating experience. But this was something else. Both are equally rewarding. But this felt more personal and enriching.

I stood in awe and tried to gather my emotions. Was this the Trophy that Ranatunga and his men lifted in 1996? The T20 World Cup 2014 Trophy also stood there in all its glory. In fact, both the World Cup(s) have a dedicated corner along with the pictures, jersey, scorecard and signed bats.

This is what World Cup win do. They change the identity of a nation.

Picture Source: Lakshit Singhal/Cricket Field Chronicles

The museum was opened in 2019. It is not vast but keeps you captivated. It is thoughtfully designed with prominence given to the hallmark achievements of Sri Lanka Cricket. The two World Cup Trophies take the center stage, obviously.

At the entrance, we get to see a timeline of Sri Lanka cricket, reminding the fans of all the glorious moments in Sri Lanka cricket history. As we move in, the memorabilia, photos and artifacts start weaving their magic. The museum celebrates Sri Lankan cricket in its most purest form.

The scorecards of the World Cup Final matches that Sri Lanka won were reproduced in full. It was great to revisit them, though the 2014 one touches a raw nerve. The iconic pictures take you down the memory lane. You actually acknowledge how much has Sri Lanka has achieved in such a short span of time.

Realizing I am from India, the manager even guided me towards the ICC Champions Trophy from 2002. India and Sri Lanka were joint winners and had to share the trophy. Have to say, Cheeky.

While I was going through the Hall of Fame Board, I was amazed by the quality of cricketers Sri Lanka has produced in a short span of time. As of March 2025, a total of 167 players have represented Sri Lanka in Test cricket since they gained Test status in 1981. I found this Board to be a great addition to honour the legacy of Sri Lanka cricket stalwarts. This allows the younger generation to take inspiration and promotes the sporting culture in the country.

Picture Source: Lakshit Singhal/Cricket Field Chronicles

I was extremely fortunate that the museum didn't have many visitors when I visited. Just one local guy. It allowed me to read in peace and go through the details without any obstruction. I could also document each moment adequately.

As fate would have it, I could not visit the SSC Ground. An ODI Tri-Series between IND-W, SA-W and SL-W was scheduled there and I wasn't given the permission to enter. I couldn't visit the other grounds too as I had limited time at my disposal, most of which was taken up by the museum (no regrets at all).

With the T20 world Cup scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka next year, it might be a good opportunity to take a trip again to the beautiful and loving country.

My belief is stronger than ever. This is a country that loves cricket and its cricketers. As I bid goodbye to Sri Lanka, I hope they will rise and reclaim their lost glory. A new leader would emerge. A new dawn would surface for Sri Lanka cricket. Cricket fans are waiting for it.

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Timings: 9 am - 5 pm (Monday-Saturday)

Entry Fees - 500 LKR*

They charged me 500/- LKR per person, but charged a local less. There is no official information on the pricing.