Sri Lanka announces free entry to fans for India Test series in Galle, Colombo
In a major move aimed at drawing packed crowds for red-ball cricket, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced free public admission for the upcoming two-match Test series against India. The initiative offers cricket enthusiasts across the island and elsewhere an unmissable opportunity to the high-profile home series, featuring Shubman Gill’s India, from the stands, according to local media.
The high-stakes series forms an integral part of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–2027 cycle. The opening Test is scheduled to take place at the picturesque Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19. The action will then shift to the capital for the second and final Test at the historic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds in Colombo, running from August 23 to 27.
To ensure smooth entry for fans, SLC has designated specific stadium access points. Spectators attending the first Test in Galle can enter through Gate No. 4. For the second Test at the SSC in Colombo, free entry will be facilitated through Gates 3, 4, 5, and 7. Extension of this open invitation aims to inspire young aspiring cricketers and bring families together to experience the atmosphere of Test match cricket.
With Test cricket failing to draw big crowds, especially in the subcontinent, Sri Lanka Cricket seems willing to forgo gate fees to ensure packed stands and a lively atmosphere filled with traditional papare music.
INDIA BOWLERS TOIL IN COLOMBO
Meanwhile, India’s tour officially got underway on Friday with the opening day of their three-day warm-up fixture against Sri Lanka XI at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) Ground in Colombo. KL Rahul led the visiting side after regular skipper Shubman Gill missed the match due to a minor right ring finger injury.
Opting to bat first, the hosts capitalised on early momentum through fluent half-centuries from Nishan Madushka (66) and Ravindu Rasantha (71).
India’s slow bowlers fought back strongly in the post-lunch sessions. Spinners Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Manav Suthar grabbed two wickets apiece to curtail Sri Lanka XI’s scoring rate.
Despite a fighting half-century from home captain Sonal Dinusha, India’s bowling attack restricted Sri Lanka XI to 363/8 at stumps on Day 1.
– Ends
