Sri Lanka Police announces special traffic plan for England-Sri Lanka cricket matches on Jan 22, 24, 27. Find alternative routes & avoid delays in Colombo!
Cricket fans across Sri Lanka are buzzing with excitement as England’s cricket team prepares to visit the island for an epic showdown. The R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo will host three thrilling One Day International (ODI) matches in January 2026. However, if you’re planning to attend these matches or simply travel through Colombo during these dates, the Sri Lanka Police has announced a special traffic arrangement that you should know about.
Understanding the Special Traffic Plan
The Sri Lanka Police has implemented a well-thought-out traffic management strategy to ensure smooth movement around the stadium area during match days. This plan aims to reduce traffic congestion, enhance public safety, and make the experience better for both cricket fans and regular commuters.
Key Dates to Remember
The special traffic plan will be active on three important dates:
- January 22, 2026 (1st ODI Match)
- January 24, 2026 (2nd ODI Match)
- January 27, 2026 (3rd ODI Match)
All three matches will take place at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, located in the Khettarama area of Colombo. This venue, with its massive 35,000-seating capacity, attracts thousands of passionate cricket supporters, making traffic management essential.
Why Is This Traffic Plan Necessary?
The England cricket team will play three ODI matches against Sri Lanka, starting on Thursday, January 22, and concluding on Tuesday, January 27. These international cricket matches draw enormous crowds from across the country and even international visitors.
The R. Premadasa Stadium sits in the heart of Colombo, surrounded by busy roads and residential areas. During major cricket events, the area experiences significant traffic buildup. Previous international matches have shown that without proper planning, traffic can become chaotic, causing frustration for both spectators trying to reach the stadium and regular commuters going about their daily activities.
The stadium’s central location, while convenient for accessibility, means that several major roads around it become congested on match days. Visitors often arrive hours before the match starts, and when the game ends, thousands of people exit simultaneously, creating a rush hour-like situation.
Roads Affected by the Traffic Plan
From 12:00 noon until the end of each match, drivers and the public using roads around the stadium are requested to consider alternative routes. The following roads will experience increased traffic flow:
- Pradeepa Mawatha
- Saddharma Mawatha
- Jayantha Weerasekara Mawatha
- Temple Road (Khettarama Mawatha)
- 100 Feet Road
- Bodhiraja Mawatha
- Vincent Perera Mawatha
- Dr. Britto Babapulle Place
These roads form a network around the R. Premadasa Stadium and are typically the main access points for vehicles heading to the venue.
What This Means for You
Important Clarification: No Road Closures
Here’s the good news: The Police have clarified that this traffic plan does not involve complete road closures or strict traffic restrictions. All roads will remain open for normal traffic as usual. This means you can still use these roads if necessary, but you should expect heavier than normal traffic and possible delays.
The request to use alternative routes is a recommendation, not a mandatory restriction. The police are simply advising people to plan their journeys wisely and consider other roads to help reduce congestion.
For Cricket Fans Attending the Matches
If you’re planning to watch these exciting England versus Sri Lanka matches, here’s what you should keep in mind:
Arrive Early: Traffic builds up significantly as match time approaches. Plan to reach the stadium area at least two to three hours before the scheduled start time. This gives you enough buffer time to navigate through traffic, find parking, and get to your seat comfortably.
Use Public Transportation: Consider taking public buses, trains, or shared transportation options. These are often more reliable during high-traffic events and help reduce the number of private vehicles on the road.
Plan Your Parking: Parking near the stadium can be extremely challenging on match days. Look for authorized parking areas and be prepared to walk a short distance to the venue. Some fans choose to park at a distance and use tuk-tuks for the final leg of their journey.
Check Match Start Times: The ODI matches typically start around 2:30 PM local time, which means the traffic advisory begins at noon, giving everyone a two-and-a-half-hour window before the first ball is bowled.
For Regular Commuters and Residents
If you’re not attending the matches but need to travel through Colombo on these dates, here’s how you can avoid getting stuck in cricket traffic:
Plan Alternative Routes: Study a map of Colombo and identify roads that bypass the stadium area. Apps like Google Maps can help you find alternate paths that avoid the congested zones.
Adjust Your Schedule: If possible, complete your essential errands and appointments before noon or plan them for later in the evening after the match crowds have dispersed.
Stay Informed: Follow traffic updates on local radio stations, social media, and traffic apps. Real-time information can help you make better decisions about which route to take.
Be Patient: Remember that this is a temporary situation affecting only three specific days. A little patience and understanding will go a long way in making the experience smoother for everyone.
About the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium
To understand why this traffic plan is necessary, it helps to know more about this iconic venue. The R. Premadasa Stadium, formerly known as Khettarama Stadium, is the largest cricket stadium in Sri Lanka and one of the most historic venues in international cricket.
Stadium Facts and Features
Named after former Sri Lankan President Ranasinghe Premadasa, the stadium opened in 1986 and has since hosted over 150 One Day International matches. It’s located approximately 6 kilometers from Colombo’s city center, in the Maligawatta suburb.
The venue has witnessed some incredible cricket history. It holds the world record for the highest Test score ever made, when Sri Lanka scored 952 runs for 6 wickets against India in 1997-98. This stadium has also hosted major tournaments including the 2011 Cricket World Cup semi-final, the 2012 ICC World Twenty20 final, and the 2023 Asia Cup final.
With modern facilities, electronic scoreboards, food stalls, beverage stands, and wheelchair access, the stadium provides an excellent experience for cricket fans. However, its popularity also means that it draws massive crowds, especially for high-profile matches like the upcoming England series.
The England Tour: What to Expect
The England cricket team’s visit to Sri Lanka in January 2026 is generating tremendous excitement. This tour marks an important preparation phase for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup later in the year.
A Historic Cricket Rivalry
England and Sri Lanka have shared a competitive rivalry in limited-overs cricket, with both teams having won a nearly equal number of ODI matches over the past three decades. This balanced competition means every match could go either way, adding to the excitement.
England comes with a squad full of talented players known for their explosive batting and skilled bowling. Sri Lanka, playing at home, will rely on their spin bowling mastery and experienced players who excel in local conditions. The combination of these two competitive teams promises entertaining cricket that fans won’t want to miss.
Match Day Experience
International cricket matches in Colombo offer an unforgettable atmosphere. The stadium comes alive with passionate fans, colorful banners, energetic drum beats from papare bands, and the electric energy that only live cricket can create. Families, school groups, and dedicated cricket enthusiasts fill the stands, creating a festival-like environment.
The three ODI matches will be broadcast internationally, bringing global attention to Colombo. This makes it even more important for the city to manage traffic effectively and showcase Sri Lanka’s capability to host world-class sporting events smoothly.
Tips for a Smooth Match Day Experience
Whether you’re a cricket fan or a regular commuter, here are practical tips to navigate match days successfully:
For Spectators
1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets early through official channels. This saves time at the stadium and ensures you have a spot for the match you want to watch.
2. Travel Light: Bring only essential items. Security checks can take time, and moving through crowds is easier with less luggage. Note that items like outside alcohol, flag sticks, and large cardboard signs are not permitted inside the stadium.
3. Stay Hydrated: Colombo can be hot and humid. Bring a water bottle (if allowed) or plan to purchase drinks inside the stadium.
4. Coordinate with Friends: If you’re going in a group, establish a meeting point in case you get separated in the crowds.
5. Download Match Apps: Stay updated with live scores, player statistics, and match highlights through official cricket apps.
For Motorists
1. Study Alternative Routes: Before match day, familiarize yourself with roads that don’t pass near the stadium. Major roads like Baseline Road, Havelock Road, or Kirulapone Avenue might offer better flow.
2. Use Navigation Apps: Turn on traffic layer features in Google Maps or Waze to see real-time congestion and receive suggestions for faster routes.
3. Carpool When Possible: Sharing rides reduces the number of vehicles on the road and helps ease congestion.
4. Avoid Peak Hours: If your journey isn’t urgent, consider traveling before noon or waiting until late evening after the match concludes and crowds have dispersed.
5. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Save local traffic police contact numbers in case you need assistance or want to report traffic issues.
Public Transportation Options
Using public transport on match days can be the smartest choice. Here’s what’s available:
Buses
Colombo has an extensive bus network with routes passing near the stadium. Look for buses heading to Khettarama or Maligawatta areas. Government and private buses both serve this route, though they may be more crowded than usual on match days.
Trains
While the nearest major railway station is about 4.2 kilometers from the stadium, you can take a train to Colombo Fort or Maradana stations and then use a short bus ride or tuk-tuk to reach the venue.
Tuk-Tuks (Three-Wheelers)
These iconic Sri Lankan vehicles are perfect for navigating through traffic. They can take you right to the stadium entrance, though fares may be slightly higher during match days due to demand. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey or insist on using the meter.
Ride-Sharing Services
Apps like PickMe and Uber operate in Colombo and can be convenient options. Book your ride well in advance if you’re heading to the match, and expect surge pricing during peak hours.
What Happens After the Match?
The traffic advisory period lasts from noon until the end of each match. ODI matches can last anywhere from 7 to 8 hours, meaning the matches could end around 9:30 PM to 10:30 PM, depending on the pace of play.
After the final ball is bowled, thousands of spectators will exit the stadium simultaneously. This creates another surge in traffic that typically lasts for 30 minutes to an hour. The police will manage traffic flow during this critical period to prevent gridlock.
If you’re attending the match, consider waiting inside the stadium for 15-20 minutes after the game ends. This allows the initial rush to clear, making your departure smoother. Use this time to discuss the match highlights with fellow fans or grab a snack from the stadium food stalls.
The Bigger Picture: Sri Lanka’s Love for Cricket
Cricket isn’t just a sport in Sri Lanka; it’s a passion that unites the nation. When the national team plays, especially against traditional rivals like England, the entire country pays attention. Schools organize group outings to matches, families plan their schedules around game times, and workplaces buzz with pre-match predictions and post-match analysis.
This deep connection to cricket explains why proper traffic management is so important. The authorities want to ensure that this beloved sport brings joy without causing inconvenience to daily life. The special traffic plan represents a balance between celebrating cricket and maintaining normal city functions.
Economic and Tourism Impact
International cricket matches also boost Colombo’s economy. Hotels near the stadium fill up with visiting fans, restaurants see increased business, and local vendors selling cricket merchandise, food, and beverages enjoy higher sales. Managing traffic efficiently ensures that tourists and cricket enthusiasts have a positive experience, encouraging them to return for future events.
The upcoming series takes place at iconic venues known for their lively atmospheres and challenging conditions, which makes these matches particularly attractive to international cricket tourists. Many fans combine match attendance with exploring Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Safety Considerations
The Sri Lanka Police have implemented this traffic plan not just for convenience but also for public safety. Large crowds require careful management to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s wellbeing.
What Police Will Do
On match days, police officers will be stationed at key intersections around the stadium to direct traffic and assist motorists. They’ll monitor traffic flow and make real-time adjustments if certain roads become too congested. Their presence also helps prevent traffic violations and maintains order.
Your Role in Safety
As a responsible citizen or visitor, you can contribute to everyone’s safety by:
- Following police instructions and traffic signals
- Avoiding aggressive driving or rushing through traffic
- Being courteous to pedestrians, especially families with children heading to the match
- Not blocking intersections or parking in unauthorized areas
- Reporting any suspicious activity or emergencies to nearby police officers
Looking Ahead: Future Cricket Events
This England tour is just the beginning of an exciting cricket calendar for Sri Lanka. The country will continue hosting international matches, and each major event will require similar traffic management strategies.
By cooperating with the police and planning ahead during this England series, we’re helping establish best practices for future events. Your positive response to this traffic plan makes it easier for authorities to organize even bigger cricket tournaments in the future.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead for a Great Experience
The special traffic plan for the England-Sri Lanka cricket matches in Colombo on January 22, 24, and 27, 2026, is designed with everyone’s convenience in mind. While it might seem like an inconvenience at first, it’s actually a proactive measure to ensure smooth traffic flow and an enjoyable experience for all.
Whether you’re a passionate cricket fan excited to watch England take on Sri Lanka, or someone who simply needs to navigate through Colombo on these dates, planning ahead is your best strategy. Study alternative routes, consider public transportation, arrive early if attending matches, and stay informed about traffic conditions.
Remember, the roads around the R. Premadasa Stadium will not be closed completely. You can still use them if necessary, but expect heavier traffic from noon until the matches end. The police are simply requesting that you consider alternative routes when possible to help minimize congestion.
Cricket brings people together and creates memories that last a lifetime. With a little planning and cooperation, these three ODI matches can be enjoyed to the fullest while keeping Colombo’s traffic moving smoothly. Let’s make this England tour a success both on and off the cricket field!
Stay safe, plan your routes, and enjoy the cricket!