SLC to dedicate T20I series against Pakistan to ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ programme

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has dedicated the upcoming home T20I series of its men’s team against Pakistan, scheduled to be played next month, to the “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” initiative, the country’s media reported on Wednesday.

According to reports, the decision was taken by the SLC Executive Committee, headed by Shammi Silva, as part of the body’s commitment to support the government’s recovery efforts after the devastation caused by the Ditwah Cyclone. The reports further suggested that the SLC, in a statement, vowed to take several measures throughout the series to raise awareness regarding the programme, while also promoting the #VisitSriLanka hashtag at match venues to promote the country for tourism globally.

Furthermore, the SLC will also donate the profit made from the upcoming home series against Pakistan to the federal government’s programme. For the unversed, the highly anticipated T20I series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be played on January 7, 9 and 11, respectively. The series will serve as a crucial stepping stone for both sides in preparing for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, slated to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Pakistan, slotted in Group A, will start their campaign against the Netherlands in the curtain raiser of the 20-team tournament on February 7, whereas Sri Lanka, placed in Group B, will kick start their expedition the following day by taking on Ireland.

Notably, the two teams last faced each other in the shortest format in the Pakistan-hosted tri-nation series in November, also featuring Zimbabwe, which saw the home side clinch the title by defeating Sri Lanka in the final. Web Desk