R. Premadasa Stadium under floodlight [X.com]
One of the most prestigious venues in Sri Lanka, the R. Premadasa International Stadium situation in Colombo holds a tremendous place in the hearts of cricket fans all across the globe. The venue is renowned for being electrifying and easily hosts the most festive of fans around the world.
Built in 1984, the R. Premadasa has over the years witnessed several iconic moments in its rich history, having hosted nine Tests, 44 T20Is, and 141 ODIs, amounting to 194 internationals. To date, it remains the largest cricketing stadium in Sri Lanka, with a capacity of over 35,000.
Unveiling the Legacy of R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo
A young venue in respect to the many others in the world, the R Premadasa started construction back in the early 1980s, under the watchful eyes of former Sri Lanka President Ranasinghe Premadasa.
The stadium is built over acres of swampland, which local fishermen used to travel en route to the famous Khettarama temple, which is adjacent to the colossal outlet. It was earlier known as Khettarama or the Ranasinghe Premadasa Stadium before it became officially renamed as R. Premadasa in 1994. Apart from Asia Cup 2023, the stadium has also played host to major international events such as World Cup 1996, Champions Trophy 2002, World Cup 2011, and World T20 2012.
The most recent renovation came in 2009 when the stadium received a facelift for the World Cup 2011. Earlier in 2003, a new training center was built behind the stadium with as many as 16 practice pitches.
The ambiance in the stadium is known to be one of the best with home fans playing loud music, dancing, and cheering on local players while also showing appreciation for the opponents.
Notable Record
The stadium is also known for holding the record for the highest Test total, where Sri Lanka slammed 952 for 5 against India in 1997-98, where Sanath Jayasuriya and Roshan Mahanama shared a record-shattering 576-run stand for the second wicket.
R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo: Pitch Report
Multiple pitches can be found at R Premadasa [X.com]
R. Premadasa is situated in the hustle-and-bustle of Colombo and sports a batting-friendly track, which over time deteriorates. However, a lot of times the format also dictates the type of track that will be dished out, which could surprise both teams equally.
Factors that Influence Gameplay and Performance
1. Surface Texture and Composition: With high clay content in the track, the texture of the pitch is mostly crumbly, with the surface becoming more abrasive with time.
2. Spin-Friendly Conditions: Historically, the R Premadasa Stadium offers support for spinners, regardless of off or leg spin. With visible patches on the track, batting becomes even more difficult given the uncertainty of how the ball would react once it hits the crack.
3. Variable Bounce and Pace: The pitch has been quite tricky for batters to gauge. In shorter formats, the bounce remains fairly equal for both sides, while in longer formats the pitch starts to play tricks.
4. Pitch Deterioration: Due to the composition of the pitch being clay-based, the surface starts to crumble away. A technically sound batter will manage to prevail, however, in this day and age of modern batting, it is all about the survival of the best skillset.
R. Premadasa Stadium Weather Report
R Premadasa Stadium outfield covered with blue tarpsheets [X.com]
The weather conditions much like other parts of Sri Lanka is quite hot in Colombo, and fall under the tropical climate. Apart from the constant heat, the area is prone to irregular monsoons, which can regulate when cricket can be played in the city or not.
1. Temperature: Given the temperature ranges from the high 30s to mid-20s, the playing conditions is quite hot for players. The warm climate also pushes players to their limits, as it tests their endurance as well, apart from just skills. The track also changes behaviour, with a high degree amounting to a crumbly pitch, while a lower degree will see a more seamer conducive track.
2. Humidity: Given the constant influx of rain and proximity to the ocean, humidity is quite high. This produces some assistance for pacers, who are normally seen taking cover from batters at the venue.
3. Rain and Dampness: Given the excellent facilities at R Premadasa and the hard-working groundsmen, the number of rain-truncated matches are quite low. However, cloudy conditions do make things spicy for fast bowlers, who find ample movement in the air with the breeze blowing across the stands.
The stadium hosted the Asia Cup 2023 final, which was won by India. They thrashed Sri Lanka in a one-sided affair.
R. Premadasa Stadium ODI Records And Stats
| First ODI Match | 5/4/1986 |
| Last ODI Match | 17/9/2023 |
| Matches Won by Home Side | 76 (53.90%) |
| Matches Won by Touring Side | 39 (27.66 %) |
| Matches Won Batting First | 76 (52.05%) |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 55 (37.67%) |
| Matches Won Winning Toss | 76 (52.05%) |
| Matches Won Losing Toss | 57 (39.04%) |
| Highest Individual Innings | 169 by Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) |
| Best Bowling | 6/20 Angelo Mathews (Sri Lanka) |
| Highest Team Innings | 375/ 5 (India) |
| Lowest Team Innings | 86 (Netherlands) |
| Highest Run Chase Achieved | 292/4 (Australia) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question 1: What is the history behind R Premadasa Stadium?
A: The R Premadasa Stadium was constructed in the early 1980s, and was the brainchild of former Sri Lanka President Ranasinghe Premadasa. The R Premadasa Stadium till 1994 was known as Khettarama Cricket Stadium also.
Question 2: How does the pitch at R Premadasa Stadium behave?
A: The pitch conditions at R Premadasa are generally known to favour the batters, where strokeplay and shot-making come easy. However, the pitch will assist spinners as the game progresses and exhibit uneven bounce as well. The pacers could find some help early on.
Question 3: Can you suggest nearby attractions to visit along with a match at R Premadasa Stadium?
A: Some of the nearby tourist places around R Premadasa Stadium are as follows:
- Independence Square
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Excel World Entertainment Park
- Cinnamon Nature Trails
- Crow Island Beach Park
Question 4: How does weather impact matches at R Premadasa Stadium?
A: With a hot and humid climate, the track becomes more abrasive and poses a threat to batters while assisting spinners. Under cloudy conditions, the pitch supports pacers, who find extra movement on an otherwise flat surface.
