Sri Lanka board grants free entry for fans to SL v IND Tests in Galle and Colombo
Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) has announced free entry for spectators to both Tests in the upcoming Sri Lanka versus India series, with the first Test starting on August 15 (Saturday) at Galle International Stadium and the second Test beginning on August 23 (Sunday) at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. The move covers matches in Galle and Colombo and applies to fans entering through specified gates.
This will be the first time India tour Sri Lanka for a Test series since 2017 and the two sides have met only three times in Test cricket over the last decade. India have not lost a Test series against Sri Lanka since 2008, and Shubman Gill and Co. will look to maintain that record. The series forms part of the ongoing World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle and has drawn attention across the cricketing community.
Under the SLC announcement, free entry is valid for fixtures at Galle International Stadium and Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. For the first Test, fans with free entry must enter through Gate No. 4, while for the second Test they will be permitted through Gates Nos. 3, 4, 5, and 7. The board said the decision was taken to boost the Test series.
SLC framed the measure as an opportunity to increase turnout after Test cricket in the subcontinent has struggled to attract large crowds. The board added that free entry will inspire youngsters and families to come and enjoy the action. Organisers described the arrangement as a fantastic opportunity for cricket fans to watch the high-profile matches between India and Sri Lanka.
The series carries points in the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. After a 0-2 home series defeat against South Africa, India have slipped to fifth place in the WTC table with 48.15 PCT and 52 points, while Sri Lanka sit in 6th spot with 41.67 PCT. Both teams are aiming for a 2-0 series result to improve their standings in the WTC table.
The first SL v IND Test will begin on August 15 (Saturday) at Galle International Stadium in Galle, followed by the second Test starting on August 23 (Sunday) at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.