New cricket ground for Mullaitivu

In a landmark development, the Sri Lanka Army yesterday handed over to the people a brand new cricket ground constructed in just 33 days in Oddusuddan, Mullaitivu.

The ground, named The IODR Oval after its main sponsor the Indian Ocean Disaster Relief Fund (IODR), was opened by Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara.

The ground will be the flagship venue for the Murali Harmony Cup 2012, a 20-team reconciliation tournament staged to promote community-building and friendship. The tournament, will be played out in five grounds in Jaffna, Oddusuddan, Mankulam, Kilinochchi, and Vavuniya from September 8-12.

The tournament has been jointly organised by Muttiah Muralidaran's charity the Foundation of Goodness, travel company Red Dot Tours, the International Cricket Council and the Sri Lanka Army.

The development transformed a hitherto barren sports field into a functioning cricket facility for local children with the addition of a large pavilion, toilets, astro-turf cricket nets, scoreboard, sight-screens, an improved outfield, matting wicket and general beautification including the planting of trees.

"This is a wonderful development that will help hundreds of children play and enjoy the great game of cricket," former Sri Lanka captain Sangakkara told the media.

The construction was only possible thanks to the encouragement and logistical support of the Sri Lanka Army.

"To build this facility in just 33 days is an amazing effort by all those involved. In particular I would like to thank the Sri Lanka Army. They embraced this project from day one, understanding full well the positive impact sport can play in this region."