The Board of Control for Cricket in Sri Lanka will shortly launch a project to modernize and develop the Galle International Cricket Stadium, to fulfill a long-felt need to bring this Test venue's facilities up to international standards.

The project, which is expected to cost between 40 and 50 million rupees, includes a new grandstand with modern facilities, including seating for 250 spectators, a media box with a capacity for 140 media persons, dressing rooms for teams, separate catering areas, air-conditioned VIP areas, and boxes for the 3rd Umpire and Match Referee.

The new grandstand will be built in the area that is presently occupied by the Galle Cricket Club and Southern Province Cricket Association offices, which will be demolished. The new building will house the offices of the Galle CC and SPCA.

The project is scheduled for completion prior to the visit of the New Zealand in May 2003 for a Test series. Sri Lanka is also expected to host tours of the English and Australian teams next year.

A separate project will see a new scoreboard constructed at this stadium at the same time.

© BCCSL