Sri Lanka Cricket realizing dwindling spectator interest allows free entry
For a Test match without a spectator audience is not a favourable sight. Sri Lanka Cricket authorities, knowing the alarming dwindling spectator interest at our Test venues offered free entrance to spectators at the Galle international Cricket stadium during the First Test between Sri Lanka and babies of test cricket Ireland.Many cricket fanatics thronged to the stadium which included even elderly women who are interested in the game braving the heat. Of course they had to be content sitting on the terraces under the scorching heat.The second and final Test against the same opponents is scheduled to begin on 24 April at the same venue. It is suggested to the authorities of the SLC to provide a cover for the fanatics who come in their numbers to witness the cricket. It is also recommended for the authorities of the SLC to provide with drinking water or a drink on the house to the ardent viewers which the SLC could very well afford.
It was so pleasant to observe several Irish spectators both men and women who had visited Sri Lanka specially to witness the Tests. It is a pity that these visitors were accommodated in a stand not with comfortable chairs though the VIP stands were empty sans a single spectator. These Irish fans should be given accommodation in more comfortable enclosures which could boost our tourism too.
Sunil Thenabadu in Brisbane
