Football: Sri Lanka’s first artificial turf declared open

The Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) organised grand official opening of Sri Lanka’s first artificial football turf last Saturday (10).

Minister of Sports, Dayasiri Jayasekara along with FFSL officials Anura de Silva (President), Jaswar Umar (General Secretary), its Executive Committee members and representatives of regional leagues were present at the opening ceremony.

"This artificial turf was funded by FIFA and shall be used for Sri Lanka National team preparations for international games. Complying with International standards, this turf provides an opportunity to train national teams in any weather conditions," an official media release issued by the FFSL stated.

"It is great pleasure to have this facility for FFSL which is most vital part in preparing our national teams for international games. We thank FIFA, AFC and the Ministry of Sport for keeping confidence in football and supporting the game in every aspect," FFSL President, Anura de Silva said.

The Beddegana artificial football pitch and the training centre can provide residential training facilities for 40 players and 15 officials at any given time. 

The facility also includes a cafeteria, an auditorium and a gymnasium as part of the complex.