Rex Clementine in Dambulla

Dambulla has become more than just a town in Sri Lanka; it’s now an icon in the nation’s cricketing landscape. As the T20 International series against the West Indies unfolds with two of its three matches set on holidays, cricket enthusiasts have every reason to journey to this historic town. Known for its ancient cave temples and the nearby marvel of Sigiriya, Dambulla is a blend of cultural richness and sporting passion—a setting that makes it the perfect cricketing destination.

The city’s accommodation offerings are just as varied as the fans who arrive. From luxury stays like Jetwing Vil Uyana and Kandalama to mid-range favorites such as Sundaras Resort or Pelwehera, and even budget spots like Freedom Village or Evergreen Hotel, Dambulla has something to suit every budget. With tickets disappearing as fast as T20 overs, fans from Colombo, Kurunegala, Matale, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa crowd the venue. And for those looking for a quick return trip, round-the-clock buses ensure fans can make it home the same day.

The stadium here owes its inception to former cricket boss Thilanga Sumathipala, with ex-Test captains Bandula Warnapura and Duleep Mendis leading the project in 2001. While it faced initial criticism, the ground has become essential to Sri Lanka’s cricket. Nestled in one of the driest parts of the country, Dambulla provides the ideal conditions during Colombo’s rainy season, ensuring uninterrupted play.

This carnival of cricket brings fans from all corners, and the demand for tickets is so high that even the trees around the ground don’t go unscathed as fans scramble for the best vantage points. The cricket buzz has also bolstered local businesses, with supermarkets, guest houses, eateries, and small vendors thriving around the stadium.

Under the guidance of Sanath Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka have been on an upward trajectory. Their recent triumph over India in the ODI series, ending a 27-year wait, and a string of Test victories that have elevated them to fifth in the world, are testament to their progress. Yet, in the T20 format, there’s still room to improve—a goal Jayasuriya is laser-focused on.

Recent results may not look flattering: an early World Cup exit followed by a 3-0 sweep by India, leaving them at eighth in the ICC rankings. But Jayasuriya’s squad has been hard at work, honing their skills and fortifying their resilience. The hallmark of his leadership is grit, and he’s set on securing a series win.

Changes are also shaping the team’s lineup. Former captain Dasun Shanaka, after a string of disappointments that included three consecutive ducks, has been dropped. Filling his spot is Bhanuka Rajapaksa, the powerful hitter known for clearing boundaries. Yet Rajapaksa is also on thin ice; his place in the squad depends on his fitness and fielding. If he doesn’t step up, Sri Lanka might need to search elsewhere for a dependable finisher.

The stakes are high for Sri Lanka, with the 2026 T20 World Cup looming—a tournament they will co-host with India. Fine-tuning the lineup is paramount, and all eyes are on the fast-bowling duo of Nuwan Thushara and Matheesha Pathirana. Thushara, recently back from a finger injury, delivered a standout performance in the NSL final, securing a win for Colombo. Pathirana, still finding his footing after his return, showed flashes of his devastating T20 form despite a costly eight-over spell in the longer format.

The West Indies squad, meanwhile, arrived in a subdued form, missing key players like Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, and Akeal Hosein. Without their usual firepower, Sri Lanka has a golden opportunity to rewrite history and claim their first-ever bilateral T20 series win over the Caribbean side. With home-field advantage, fervent fans, and a new found resilience, this series could mark the beginning of a new era for Sri Lankan T20 cricket.