Sanath Jayasuriya urges Indian PM Modi to support building an international cricket stadium in Jaffna, aiming to boost youth sports and unity in Sri Lanka’s north.
Imagine a world-class cricket stadium rising in the heart of Jaffna—a place that has long been sidelined in sports development. That’s exactly what Sri Lankan cricket icon Sanath Jayasuriya has envisioned. During a high-profile meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Colombo, Jayasuriya took the bold step of requesting India’s support to make this dream a reality.
Background of the Meeting
This remarkable conversation took place during Modi’s official visit to Colombo. As part of the agenda, members of Sri Lanka’s legendary 1996 Cricket World Cup-winning team, including Jayasuriya, were invited to meet with the Indian Prime Minister.
The gathering wasn’t just a nostalgic moment for cricket fans; it was an opportunity for action. The players shared stories, hopes, and plans—and Jayasuriya used the moment to propose something truly impactful.
Jayasuriya’s Big Ask
Sanath Jayasuriya didn’t waste time. He asked PM Modi directly for India’s help in constructing an international cricket stadium in Jaffna. Later, he took to social media to express his gratitude and excitement:
“It was a truly memorable and inspiring experience,” Jayasuriya posted. “I humbly requested Prime Minister Modi’s support in building a stadium in Jaffna. This project can change lives.”
And honestly? He’s right.
‘It was a great experience meeting PM @narendramodi. He explained nicely how he developed India as a nation’, says Sanath Jayasuriya former Sri Lankan cricketer after meeting PM Modi. pic.twitter.com/s8ZCOFPhRW
— DD News (@DDNewslive) April 5, 2025
Why Jaffna?
Why Jaffna, you ask? Simple.
Jaffna is a city full of history, culture, and resilience. For decades, it was at the center of Sri Lanka’s civil war. While the region is slowly recovering, it still lacks modern infrastructure—especially in sports.
An international cricket stadium could be the game-changer. Not just for cricket, but for unity, youth development, and tourism in the Northern and Eastern provinces.
India-Sri Lanka Sports Ties
India has always played a key role in Sri Lankan cricket. From organizing tours to offering coaching support and funding grassroots initiatives, India has stood by Sri Lanka in tough times.
Jayasuriya’s appeal builds on this strong foundation. And let’s be honest—when two cricket-loving nations come together, magic happens.
Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Sri Lanka
PM Modi’s trip to Colombo wasn’t just symbolic—it was strategic. He met top officials, paid homage at significant sites, and emphasized India’s commitment to rebuilding and strengthening its neighborhood ties.
His interaction with the cricketing legends of Sri Lanka stood out as a moment of unity, passion, and shared ambition.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties through Sports
Sports have a way of doing what politics can’t. They connect people across borders, languages, and ideologies.
India, being a regional powerhouse, can use its resources to not only strengthen cricket in Sri Lanka but also create deeper cultural bonds.
This stadium isn’t just about cricket—it’s about diplomacy with a sporty twist.
Benefits of a Stadium in Jaffna
Let’s break down the benefits, shall we?
Boosting Northern and Eastern Provinces
These areas have long been underdeveloped. The stadium can offer a sense of pride and a much-needed economic push.
Creating Opportunities for Youth
Imagine young boys and girls from Jaffna dreaming of representing Sri Lanka on the international stage. This stadium could give them a real chance.
Boosting Regional Tourism
A stadium means matches. Matches mean fans. And fans mean travel, hotel stays, food, shopping—you name it.
Cricket as a Unifying Force
Cricket is more than a sport in Sri Lanka. It’s a national obsession. By establishing a stadium in Jaffna, the game could become a symbol of unity, bridging ethnic and regional divides.
It’s like using the bat and ball to stitch a torn flag back together.
Economic and Social Impact
A stadium means more than games. It brings with it:
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Construction jobs
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Permanent roles in operations
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Small business opportunities (vendors, taxis, restaurants)
It can also be a platform for peacebuilding, bringing different communities together through sport.
Reaction from the Public and Stakeholders
Jayasuriya’s announcement sparked excitement across social media. Fans from across the country—and even the diaspora—cheered his vision.
Cricket boards and policymakers have also shown interest, although official commitments are still awaited.
Concerns and Challenges
Not everything is smooth sailing. There are concerns too:
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Where will the funding come from?
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Will local politics delay the project?
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Is there enough public-private partnership potential?
These are real questions, but none are without solutions.
What’s Next?
Following the appeal, several key steps are expected:
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Formal proposal to the Indian government
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Involvement of BCCI in planning and execution
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Identifying land and designing blueprints
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Creating partnerships with local sports authorities
Timeline for the Project
If things go well, groundwork could begin within a year. Jayasuriya and his team hope to have the stadium operational within three to five years.
It’s ambitious—but not impossible.
Sanath Jayasuriya’s call to action has set the wheels in motion for something historic. By appealing to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he’s created a new chapter for cricket in Sri Lanka—one that could echo far beyond the boundaries of a field.
If the dream becomes reality, Jaffna may soon roar with cheers, not conflict.
FAQs
1. Why did Sanath Jayasuriya meet with Prime Minister Modi?
To request support for building an international cricket stadium in Jaffna and strengthen India-Sri Lanka cricket ties.
2. Why is Jaffna chosen for the new stadium?
It’s a historically underserved area with potential to grow through sports, youth development, and tourism.
3. What was PM Modi’s response?
Though official approval is still pending, the meeting was described as inspiring and productive.
4. What are the benefits of a stadium in Jaffna?
It will create jobs, promote tourism, empower youth, and help unite communities through sport.
5. Will India help fund the stadium?
That’s the hope. The appeal was made, and further discussions and planning are expected soon.