The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium is one of the most scenic cricket grounds in Sri Lanka. Located in Dambulla, close to the famous cave temples and surrounded by hills and a water reservoir, this stadium is well known for bowler-friendly pitches, especially in limited-overs cricket.
This stadium was opened in 2000 and was built in a record time of just a few months. Because it is located in a dry region, rain interruptions are very rare, which makes it a perfect venue for ODI and T20I cricket. The stadium has floodlights and regularly hosts international matches, including Sri Lanka’s home series.
The two bowling ends at this venue are Press Box End and Scoreboard End. Below, we will discuss the pitch nature and full records at this ground.
Overview of Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Dambulla, Sri Lanka |
| Also Known As | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium |
| Opened | 2000 |
| Capacity | 16,800 (Approx) |
| Bowling Ends | Press Box End, Scoreboard End |
| Flood Lights | Yes |
| Pitch | Grass |
| Time Zone | UTC +05:30 |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report: Batting or Bowling?
The pitch at Rangiri Dambulla is generally considered bowling-friendly. Because of the dry surface, the wicket slows down as the match progresses.
- Fast bowlers get some help with the new ball, especially in morning matches.
- As the pitch dries, spinners become very effective, getting turn and grip.
- Batting is not easy here, and batters need to spend time in the middle.
In limited-overs cricket, teams often prefer to bowl first, as chasing becomes difficult once the pitch starts breaking.
Overall, this venue supports both pace and spin, but bowlers usually dominate.
Also see: International Sports Stadium, Coffs Harbour Pitch Report
Rangiri Dambulla Overall Records
| Format | Played | Bat | Bowl | Inaugural Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | 70 | 33 | 34 | 2001 |
| T20I | 27 | 12 | 15 | 2009 |
| Test | 0 | – | – | – |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium ODI Records
| Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 70 |
| Batting First Won | 33 |
| Bowling First Won | 34 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 213 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 175 |
| Highest Total | 385/7 by PAK vs BAN |
| Lowest Total | 76/10 by SLW vs AUSW |
| Highest Score Chased | 289/4 by SL vs PAK |
| Lowest Score Defended | 156/8 by NZ vs SL |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium T20I Records
| Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 27 |
| Batting First Won | 12 |
| Bowling First Won | 15 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 143 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 119 |
| Highest Total | 209/5 by AFG vs SL |
| Lowest Total | 40/10 by MLYW vs SLW |
| Highest Score Chased | 180/5 by WI vs SL |
| Lowest Score Defended | 108/10 by NZ vs SL |
Also see: Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram Pitch Report
Why Test Matches Are Not Played Here
- The pitch is too slow for long formats
- Breaks up quickly under heat
- More suitable for ODI and T20 cricket
That is why Sri Lanka prefers other venues like Galle or Colombo for Test cricket.
Upcoming Matches at Dambulla
- Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20I Series – January 2026
- 1st T20I: Jan 7
- 2nd T20I: Jan 9
- 3rd T20I: Jan 11
Also see: SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Weather Report (January)
| Location | Weather | Temperature | Rain Chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dambulla | Mostly Clear | 24–30°C | Very Low |
FAQs
Q1. Is Rangiri Dambulla batting or bowling friendly?
It is mainly bowling-friendly, especially for spinners.
Q2. What is the seating capacity of Rangiri Dambulla Stadium?
Ans. The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 16,800 spectators.
Q3. Has any Test match been played here?
No, no Test matches have been hosted at this ground.
Q4. Is chasing easy at Dambulla?
Chasing is difficult, as the pitch slows down in the second innings.
