News
Ministry of Sports Issues Clarification on Use of Sugathadasa Stadium for Musical Concert
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has issued an official clarification regarding the provision of the Sugathadasa Outdoor Stadium for a musical concert scheduled for December 28, 2025, following public discussion and media coverage on the matter.
In a press release dated December 28, 2025, the Ministry stated that the decision to lease the stadium for a musical event was taken in the context of the current condition of the athletics track, which it described as being in a dilapidated state and unsuitable for competitive sporting activities.
According to the statement, the existing running track has deteriorated due to potholes and extensive wear and is not currently in use for sporting events. The Ministry further noted that tender procedures have already commenced for the removal of the existing track and the construction of a new one.
Stadium Inactivity Cited
The Ministry explained that as the stadium would remain inactive for sports during the upcoming reconstruction period, the management authority agreed to lease the premises for the concert, subject to applicable charges and conditions.
It also stated that the responsibility for conducting the event rested with the organisers and that the proposed concert would not result in additional significant damage to the running track, as the surface is already scheduled for complete removal as part of the renovation process.
Response to Public Commentary
In its release, the Ministry strongly criticised what it described as distorted statements and inaccurate reporting by certain individuals and media outlets, which it said had portrayed the event as a major setback to sports and stadium infrastructure.
The Ministry requested media institutions to publish or broadcast the clarification in the interest of public awareness and transparency, noting that photographs and video footage relating to the stadium’s current condition were provided alongside the statement.
Context
The clarification follows earlier public concern and debate over the use of national sports facilities for non-sporting events, particularly in relation to athlete access, venue management practices, and adherence to established policies. The Ministry’s statement represents its official position on the matter
Cricket
Sri Lanka U19 Women Shine with Third Straight Win in Tri-Series
Sri Lanka Under-19 Women continued their impressive run in the Tri-Series in Australia, securing their third consecutive victory with a commanding 35-run win over England in Match 8.
Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a modest total of 104 for 8 in their 20 overs. Despite early pressure, valuable contributions from V. Balasuriya, who scored a steady 34 off 40 balls, and S. Kavindi with 26 off 33 deliveries helped stabilize the innings. England’s bowling attack was led by E. Bristowe, who delivered an excellent spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 15 runs.
In response, England struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling unit. The innings was wrapped up in 16.3 overs, falling well short of the target. A. Oliver top-scored with 16 runs, while S. Patil added 12, but the rest of the lineup failed to make significant contributions.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers were outstanding, with V. Weerappuli taking 2 for 6, supported by strong performances from L. Thilakarathne and P. Methsara, who picked up key wickets to dismantle the opposition.
Cricket
Sri Lanka Name Strong Squad for Bangladesh Tour 2026
Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a strong women’s squad for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh, with Chamari Athapaththu appointed as captain for both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is). The tour will feature three ODIs and three T20Is, providing valuable international exposure ahead of a busy season.

The ODI series is scheduled to be played in Rajshahi on April 20, 22, and 25, while the T20I matches will take place in Sylhet on April 28 and 30, and May 2.
The squad includes experienced players such as Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, and Nilakshika Silva, alongside promising talents like Kaveesha Dilhari and Sugandika Kumari. The selectors have also included emerging players such as Imesha Dulani, Hansima Karunaratne, and Kaushini Nuthyangana to strengthen the lineup.
Notably, the ODI and T20I squads remain largely consistent, with a few changes including the inclusion of Rashmika Sewwandi, Mithali Ayodhya, and Nimesha Madushani for the shorter format.
ODI Squad:
Chamari Athapaththu (Captain), Hasini Perera, Imesha Dulani, Hansima Karunaratne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshika Silva, Piumi Wathsala, Kaveesha Dilhari, Dewmi Vihanga, Malki Madara, Kawya Kavindi, Chethana Vimukthi, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari
T20I Squad:
Chamari Athapaththu (Captain), Hasini Perera, Imesha Dulani, Hansima Karunaratne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshika Silva, Rashmika Sewwandi, Kaveesha Dilhari, Dewmi Vihanga, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Nimesha Madushani
Cricket
Dinesh Chandimal Joins Quetta Gladiators as Replacement for Bevon Jacobs in PSL Boost
Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Chandimal is set to join the Quetta Gladiators, stepping in as a replacement for Bevon Jacobs, who has departed the squad to fulfill national team commitments. The experienced cricketer brings valuable international exposure and stability to the Gladiators as they prepare for the next phase of the Pakistan Super League.
Chandimal is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan shortly, with expectations high that he will integrate quickly into the team environment. His inclusion comes at a crucial time in the tournament, where consistency and depth in the batting lineup can make a significant difference.
Known for his composure under pressure and ability to anchor innings, Chandimal is likely to strengthen both the batting order and the wicketkeeping department. The Gladiators will be hoping his presence adds balance to the squad as they aim to improve their standing in the competition and push for a strong finish in the league.
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