Description

One of the priorities of the Government of Sri Lanka during 2005 -2015 was to initiate infrastructure upgrading and several new projects in the Hambantota District. Among the projects considered for development included, the Hambantota International Port, Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport at Mattala and the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium at Sooriyawewa and the Magam Ruhunupura International Convention Centre (MRICC).

The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) initiated the International Cricket Stadium at Mattala and wanted it completed in time to play World Cup Cricket Matches in 2009 conforming to International Cricket Council requirements. Surath Wickramasinghe Associates - (SWA), was selected by SLC to be the Architects and provide multi – disciplinary professional services including Project Management. The site in extent was 47 acres with access off the Old Road, Sooriyawewa.

The distance from Hambantota to Sooriyawewa was 35 kms and to the International Airport at Mattala was 19 kms. The Land use in the area was very low density rural housing and jungle like vegetation.

The brief for the development included the following for the Phase 1

Master Plan

A comprehensive Master Plan was prepared for the total site giving prominence to the Grandstand through a tree lined imposing access road. The Master Plan also includes the entire land use and infrastructure. 

Grandstand. 

The Grandstand Building seven floors in height was with a Curvilinear Roof which was cantilevered 70 ft. This was a Design feature. The views from the higher levels were picturesque overlooking the Lake and the Mountain ranges.  The Grandstand was able to accommodate 4000 spectators including the critical Security zones for the Players, VVIP / VIP areas which were exclusive. Another significant feature of the Design was the convenience for the general public to access and exit the building without any “bottlenecks”.

Media Center.

The Media Center with World Class communication infrastructure to accommodate 250, Media Personnel. 

Score Boards

The Score Boards and other supporting display areas. 

Spectator Areas

Due to cost and time constraints, the perimeter of the Cricket ground was an Earth Berm with Landscaped Terraces to accommodate around 30,000 plus spectators. The perimeter of the ground including the Pedestrian network provided access to other facilities such as food & beverage, other vendors, rest rooms and access to the car park and public transport. 

The duration to construct the project including the site works was twenty months, commencing in June 2009 and was completed in February 2011 to play two World Cup Cricket Matches.

Phase 2  

The covered terraces on both sides of the Grandstand.