In a significant announcement made in Parliament, Sports Minister Harin Fernando revealed that the construction of the Polonnaruwa Hingurakgoda International Test Cricket Stadium is slated to begin next year. Allocating a substantial amount of 1.5 billion rupees, the Minister outlined ambitious plans for the development of small pitches in rural areas.
Minister Fernando emphasized the collaborative efforts underway, noting that the Chamber of Commerce Chairman, along with cricket luminaries Sidath Wettamuni and Aravinda de Silva, will lead the development of small pitches. Additionally, the support of the army will be enlisted to bolster the efforts in enhancing these smaller sports facilities.
Responding to a question from MP Kins Nelson, Minister Fernando underscored the commitment to sports tourism, revealing that alongside the construction of the Hingurakgoda International Airport, plans for an international test cricket stadium are concurrently in the works.
In a bid to foster cricket and sports at the grassroots level, the Minister shared insights into a program engaging organizations such as Dialog and Telecom. These organizations have been urged to provide free passes to children in the province, aiming to encourage greater participation and interest in sports.
However, Minister Fernando acknowledged challenges within the Ministry of Sports, citing political appointments that have hampered its activities. Assuring swift action, he pledged to address and resolve related issues within a month. The Minister also highlighted a specific instance of concern— the creation of a pavilion without a field in Bingiriya. To investigate this anomaly, he called for the formation of a special committee.
As the Minister charts an ambitious course for sports development, the announcement signifies a new era for cricket facilities in Hingurakgoda and a broader commitment to nurturing sporting talent and tourism in the region.
In unveiling plans for the construction of the Polonnaruwa Hingurakgoda International Test Cricket Stadium and the development of rural pitches, Sports Minister Harin Fernando has set a compelling vision for the future of sports in Sri Lanka. The commitment of 1.5 billion rupees underscores the government's dedication to fostering cricket and sports at both the grassroots and international levels.
Minister Fernando's emphasis on collaboration, with key figures such as the Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Sidath Wettamuni, and Aravinda de Silva, amplifies the collective effort toward sporting excellence. The enlistment of the army's support further underscores the comprehensive strategy to enhance smaller sports facilities and create opportunities for budding talent.
The Minister's commitment to sports tourism, particularly with the simultaneous development of the Hingurakgoda International Airport and an international test cricket stadium, signals a broader vision to position Sri Lanka as a destination for global sporting events.
While acknowledging challenges within the Ministry of Sports, Minister Fernando's assurance of swift resolutions demonstrates a dedication to overcoming obstacles and ensuring the effective functioning of sports-related initiatives. The call for a special committee to investigate the creation of a pavilion without a field in Bingiriya reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in sports infrastructure development.
As Sri Lanka anticipates the realization of these ambitious plans, the Minister's proactive approach and collaborative efforts inspire optimism for a future where the nation's sporting prowess shines on both local and international stages. The announced initiatives mark a crucial step towards fostering a culture of sports excellence and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes in the region.