Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced free public entry for fans attending the upcoming two-match home Test series against India, with the matches set to be played at the Galle International Stadium and the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 15. The gesture is aimed at drawing larger crowds to a format that has struggled to maintain consistent spectator interest in recent years.
Sri Lankan supporters have long been known for creating a lively atmosphere at home matches, and SLC will be hoping the free-entry initiative brings that same energy to the red-ball series. Test cricket has often needed a boost in terms of crowd turnout, and the board appears eager to ensure the stands are filled for what is expected to be a key contest in the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle.
According to a report in NewsWire, fans will be able to enter Galle International Cricket Stadium free of charge through Gate No. 4, while Gates 3, 4, 5, and 7 will be open at the SSC in Colombo. The board also encouraged families, schoolchildren and young cricketers to attend and experience international Test cricket live.
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Sri Lanka had earlier offered free admission for several matches during the T20 World Cup 2026, which they co-hosted with India. That move helped create strong attendances for high-profile fixtures, including Pakistan’s tournament opener against the Netherlands and Zimbabwe’s memorable upset over Australia.
Massive gesture from Sri Lanka Cricket! Free entry for fans for the Test series vs India! 🇱🇰🎟️🇮🇳
• Packed stands incoming! SLC has announced that public admission for both Tests in Galle and Colombo will be completely FREE of charge! 🏟️🙌
• Gate Details: Access available via… pic.twitter.com/ErqmdKr93R
— Cricket Hub (@Anurag9793) August 7, 2026
The home side, however, enters the series with injury concerns. Kusal Mendis is expected to miss the opener after picking up a hamstring injury during the 2026 Lanka Premier League, while Pathum Nissanka is also doubtful for the first Test. Their absence would be a setback for Sri Lanka as they prepare to face a strong Indian side led by Shubman Gill.
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Sri Lanka currently sit sixth in the WTC standings and will be looking to climb the table with a strong result at home. A series win over India would give their World Test Championship campaign a major lift after a mixed start to the cycle.
