Officials from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) were upbeat on Wednesday about keeping the R Premadasa Stadium ready for the Asia Cup Super 4 matches and the final match despite the rain forecast of various severity over the next two weeks. On September 9, a game between Bangladesh and the hosts will serve as the opening act of the Sri Lankan leg of the Super 4 stage.
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The Asia Cup this time has been hit with rain in Sri Lanka, which has affected the games on a large scale. The much-awaited game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan was a disappointing washout due to the rain. The India-Nepal game also suffered from the rain, as the overs were reduced to 23 in the second inning.
"The outfield too has soaked in a good amount of water. But we are working hard, and we are confident of preparing the ground in time for the matches," stated Godfrey Dabrera, the national curator for the Sri Lankan Cricket Board.
"All the three cities (Colombo, Pallekele and Hambantota) are experiencing rainfall. But we have assembled around 100 members, and we are readying pitches in all three venues," Dabrera added further.
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Before the Asian Cricket Council chose to keep the original venue, there were rumours that the Super 4 matches and final would be shifted from Colombo due to the bad weather. Dabrera has faith in his team's ability to manage any circumstance.
The next six matches of the Asia Cup are slated to be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, including the final. The high-voltage match between India and Pakistan is to be played on September 10, which fans will be hoping won’t be a washout.
