Key government and sports officials met Monday at the Presidential Secretariat to assess Sri Lanka’s readiness to co-host the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with India.
The meeting, led by Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake and Sri Lanka Cricket representatives, focused on logistical, regulatory, and infrastructural preparations required to meet International Cricket Council (ICC) standards. Officials also reviewed challenges related to immigration and emigration processes for visiting spectators.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from Feb. 7 to March 8, 2026, with Sri Lanka set to host around 20 matches at three venues in Colombo and Pallekele.
The economic impact of the event was also discussed, including opportunities to boost tourism and generate new revenue streams. Officials emphasized the importance of aligning with the national “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative to ensure a sustainable tournament.
Participants in the meeting included Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Sports Director of the Ministry of Education Lieutenant Colonel Anura Abeywickrama, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russell Aponsu, and senior representatives from Sri Lanka Cricket and the armed forces. (Newswire)