The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium is one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive cricket venues, located in the Central Province near the town of Dambulla. This picturesque stadium stands out not only for its strategic significance in Sri Lankan cricket but also for its breathtaking natural surroundings.
Location and Construction
The stadium is situated on a 60-acre site leased from the Rangiri Dambulla Temple, overlooking the serene Dambulla Tank (a reservoir) and the iconic Dambulla Rock. Its location in Sri Lanka’s dry zone ensures minimal disruption from monsoon rains, making it an ideal venue for year-round cricket matches. The construction of the stadium was completed in an astonishing 167 days, with its inaugural One Day International (ODI) match held between Sri Lanka and England in March 2000.
Capacity and Facilities
The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 16,800, expandable to 30,000 for larger events. It features two ends named the “Press Box End” and the “Scoreboard End.” Floodlights were installed in 2003, allowing for day-night matches. The ground is well-maintained and offers excellent facilities for players and spectators alike.
Pitch Characteristics
The pitch at Rangiri Dambulla is known for being bowler-friendly. In the mornings, seamers benefit from the high water table and heavy sweating conditions, while spinners find assistance in the afternoons as the pitch tends to crumble. These unique conditions make it a challenging yet exciting venue for international cricket.
Significance and Achievements
- The Rangiri Dambulla Stadium is the only international cricket ground located in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, a feature that ensures uninterrupted play during the monsoon season in other parts of the country.
- It has hosted numerous memorable matches, including ODIs and T20Is. The highest ODI total recorded here is 385/7 by Pakistan against Bangladesh in 2010, while the lowest total is 88 by England against Sri Lanka in 2003 and India against New Zealand in 2010.
- Legendary players like Mahela Jayawardene and Sourav Ganguly have left their mark on this ground. Ganguly achieved his milestone of 10,000 ODI runs here in 2005.
- Notable bowling performances include John Hastings’ best figures of 6/42 and hat-tricks by Farveez Maharoof and Taskin Ahmed.
Challenges and Usage
Despite its beauty and utility, the stadium has faced challenges related to lease agreements with the Rangiri Dambulla Temple. These issues led to periods of inactivity for international cricket at the venue. However, it remains a vital part of Sri Lanka’s cricketing infrastructure, especially for hosting matches during unfavorable weather conditions elsewhere.
Tourist Appeal
Beyond cricket, the stadium’s location adds to its allure. Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside, including the UNESCO-listed Golden Temple of Dambulla nearby. The natural beauty of the area—highlighted by the lake and hills—makes it a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike.
In conclusion, the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium is more than just a cricket ground; it is a testament to Sri Lanka’s ability to blend sports infrastructure with natural beauty. Its strategic location, unique pitch conditions, and historical significance make it a cherished venue in global cricket.
