The ‘My11Circle’ Lanka Premier League (LPL) organized by Sri Lanka Cricket will no doubt have given a big boost to the tourism industry, especially when the whole world is passing through a torrid time.
With his dynamic approach of promoting sports tourism, a big bouquet should go to the Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa, without whose valiant efforts this tournament would never have turned into a reality. SLC president Shammi Silva and his team of officials never gave up hopes and strove hard to make this a success.
The country has now gained the trust and confidence of the world at large by conveying the message that this tiny Island – referred to as ‘Pearl of Indian Ocean’ - is now free and safe for both tourists and the business community.
The LPL tournament which became a reality after an almost eight-year gap has given the necessary boost to the tourism industry which is currently in a chaotic situation due the COVID-19 pandemic.
SLC made arrangements with Sony television, the official broadcasters of the LPL, to telecast to the world free of charge the most attractive places in Sri Lanka which tourists like to visit, which otherwise would have cost over US$ 25 million if contracted outside. This no doubt will give a kick-start for the all-important tourism sector in line with the Sports Minister’s vision of turning sports tourism into a US$ 1 billion industry.
With the Government decision of reopening the airports at the end of this year, more and more people are expected to visit the country. The England cricket team is scheduled to arrive in early January for two-Test series, and the Barmy Army can’t be far away. It will be an ideal opportunity for the relevant stakeholders to gear up and plan to accommodate the Englishmen with the traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, especially in December where the weather will be ideal for visitors.
2021 is going to be a busy year for SLC, with most of the foreign teams scheduled to visit the country. If a proper plan is executed by the relevant authorities, the tourism industry could boom and will play a pivotal role to revamp the country’s economy.
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