Introduction:
Hi friends, today we will take a tour of Sri Lanka's beautiful Cricket Venu, Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka is known for its rich cricketing history, producing many star players in international cricket. The country is very passionate about cricket and they have also built many international-level stadiums to host international tournaments like bilateral series and the World Cup.
Establishment:
The stadium was built for ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 to host World Cup matches. Its construction was completed in 2009 and hosted the first match of the World which was Sri Lanks vs Canada on February 20, 2011. Its End names are Thanamalwila End and Sooriyawewa End.
Location:
Address: Mattala, Lunugamwehera, Old Rd, Sooriyawewa, Sri Lanka
The MRIC Stadium (Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium), is located in Sooriyawewa town, Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka.
Capacity:
Weather:
During the Winter in January, the average temperature goes around a maximum of 31 Centigrade to 24 Centigrade minimum. There possibility of 3.4 mm of rain precipitation in the winter season. Wind speed can go up to 23 km/h.
During the Summer in July, the average maximum temperature goes up around 32 Centigrade to 26 Centigrade minimum. There is the possibility of 13.35 mm of rainfall in Summer season. Wind speed can go up to 31 km/h.
Pitch Behaviours:
The pitch offers equal assistance for both batters and bowlers. As the game progresses after some overs or sessions, the pitch becomes a bit slow. This change in pitch behaviour after some overs, helps spinners in middle overs to get some wickets or slow run-rate.
Notable Moments:
- 2012: In an ODI match against Sri Lanka, Indian living legend Virat Kohli scored 106 runs and played a masterclass at the venue.
- 2014: Legend AB Divilliers known as Mr 360 scored 71 balls 108 runs against Sri Lanka in an ODI match.
Notable Matches:
- In World Cup 2011, Sri Lanka faced Canada in the first match played at this stadium. Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the World Cup match.
Conclusion:
I tried my best to cover all topics that can help you to feel that you are currently in the stadium. (hahaha). Hopefully, you will like my effort and give appreciation in the comments section. Sri Lanka is a country of Islands with the flavor of Cricket which makes the country more attractive to visitors. Rajapaksa International Stadium is a gem in the middle of Hambantota, Srilan. I am sure you will like the trip to this beautiful stadium.
FAQ's about Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricekt Stadium:
Q. Hambantota Cricet Stadium Capacity?
A. The Stadium has a seating capacity of about 35,000 for spectators.
Q. Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium Weather?
A. During the Winter in January, the average temperature goes around a maximum of 31 Centigrade to 24 Centigrade minimum. During the Summer in July, the average maximum temperature goes up around 32 Centigrade to 26 Centigrade minimum.
Q. Which match was played here first, the inaugural match?
A. In World Cup 2011, Sri Lanka faced Canada in the first match played at this stadium. Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the World Cup match.