29/08/2024
High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom H.E. Rohitha Bogollagama hosted a special reception at Sri Lanka House in London on 27 August 2024 in honour of the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team, who are currently touring the United Kingdom for a Test match series to take place from 21 August to 10 September 2024. This is Sri Lanka’s first Test tour to England since 2016.
The evening was attended by distinguished guests, including members of the UK polity, diplomatic corps, corporate leaders, British and Sri Lankan cricket enthusiasts, and officials, gathered to celebrate the team’s visit and to show their unwavering support for Sri Lanka’s most beloved sport.
In his address, High Commissioner Bogollagama highlighted Sri Lanka's deep-rooted connection with cricket, tracing its origins back to how the British first introduced the sport to the island in the 1830s. He emphasized how cricket has since evolved into a national passion, becoming part and parcel of Sri Lankan culture. He also spoke of cricket bringing everyone together and thereby becoming a symbol of solidarity The High Commissioner extended his best wishes to the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team for their ongoing tour of England.
Mr. Mahinda Halangoda, the Team Manager of the National Team, also addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to High Commissioner Bogollagama for hosting the event. He reflected on Sri Lanka’s rich cricketing heritage, underscoring the significance of the sport in the nation’s history.
The Sri Lanka National Cricket Team’s tour includes three Test matches: from 21 to 25 August at Old Trafford, Manchester; 29 August to 2 September at Lord's, London, and 6 to 10 September at The Oval, London.
The Reception at Sri Lanka House was a reaffirmation of the close ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, particularly through the shared love of cricket. The event underscored the enduring bond between the two nations, forged through a common sporting heritage and mutual respect.
The Sri Lanka National Cricket Team will continue their tour of England with matches scheduled at the Lord’s and at The Oval, and they carry with them the best wishes of the Sri Lankan community both at home and abroad.
