Quick answer
The SSC is the better choice for a Test in Colombo for most visitors, with more covered seating, a regular Test schedule, records such as the 624 stand and a leafy setting in Cinnamon Gardens close to other historic clubs. The P Sara Oval is smaller and more intimate, with Sri Lanka's first Test in 1982 to its name and a relaxed, old-fashioned atmosphere. They are about 10 to 15 minutes apart.
Key takeaways
- The SSC hosts Tests more often and has more covered seating.
- The P Sara Oval is smaller, older-feeling and more intimate.
- The P Sara Oval hosted Sri Lanka's first Test in 1982.
- The SSC holds records such as the 624 stand of 2006.
- The grounds are about 10 to 15 minutes apart.
History
The P Sara Oval, home of the Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club, hosted Sri Lanka's first Test, against England, in February 1982. It also saw Bangladesh's 100th Test win in 2017.
The SSC hosted its first Test in 1984 and has since become one of Sri Lanka's main Test venues. It holds the 624 Test partnership of 2006 and Vaas's 8 for 19 in 2001, and it has long hosted the Royal-Thomian big match.
Both are historic; the Oval has the first Test, the SSC the records.
- →P Sara: the first Test, 1982.
- →SSC: the 624 stand and 8 for 19.
- →Both: colonial-era clubs.
Size and comfort
The P Sara Oval is one of the smallest Test grounds in Asia, with limited covered seating. Every seat is close to the boundary, but a full day in the sun is demanding.
The SSC is also compact but has more covered stands, which makes a long Test day more comfortable.
For comfort, the SSC wins; for intimacy, the Oval.
The pitches have different reputations too. The SSC has traditionally favoured batting, while the Oval's surfaces have varied, sometimes helping spin. Both can produce close finishes.
- →P Sara: smallest, limited cover.
- →SSC: compact, more cover.
- →Winner for comfort: the SSC.
Atmosphere
Both grounds have relaxed, club-like atmospheres for Tests, with modest crowds and knowledgeable regulars. The SSC can be livelier for big matches and the Royal-Thomian.
The Oval's atmosphere is the more old-fashioned, with the feel of a club match even during a Test.
For visitors who want to watch the cricket closely and chat with local fans, both are excellent.
Both grounds attract regulars who have watched cricket there for decades, and a conversation in the stands can be a lesson in Sri Lankan cricket history. Visitors are usually welcomed warmly and asked about their own team.
Neither ground has the noise of the Premadasa, which suits those who want to concentrate on the cricket.
Location and nearby
The SSC is on Maitland Place in Cinnamon Gardens, next to the NCC and close to the Colombo Cricket Club, Bloomfield, the Racecourse, the National Museum and Viharamahadevi Park.
The P Sara Oval is in Borella, a busy working district east of the centre, near the Kanatte cemetery and Borella junction. Cinnamon Gardens is a short ride away.
Lankan Stays & Trails can plan a Colombo cricket day that takes in both grounds and the clubs between them.
Food is a small difference too. Cinnamon Gardens has cafes and restaurants around the Arcade at Independence Square and the museum, while Borella's junction is lined with short-eats shops and rice and curry places, cheaper and more local. Either makes a good lunch break during a Test.
- →SSC: leafy Cinnamon Gardens.
- →P Sara: busy Borella.
- →Ten to 15 minutes apart.
Schedule
The SSC hosts Tests more often than the Oval, so it is more likely to be on a given series' schedule. The Oval hosts Tests occasionally, and both host domestic cricket regularly.
Check Sri Lanka Cricket's schedule for current venues, and consider domestic matches, often free, for a visit to either ground.
Without a match, both can usually be seen from the gate, with entry at the clubs' discretion.
- →SSC: more frequent Tests.
- →P Sara: occasional Tests.
- →Domestic matches at both.
The verdict
For a Test in Colombo, the SSC is the better all-round choice. For a quieter, more traditional day, or for the history of the first Test, the Oval is special.
Both can be seen on the same morning, along with the other Cinnamon Gardens clubs.
The companion pages cover the history and seating of each.
Frequently asked questions
Is the SSC or P Sara Oval better for a Test?
For most visitors, the SSC is better, with more covered seating, more frequent Tests and a leafy setting near other historic clubs. The P Sara Oval is smaller and more intimate, ideal for a quiet, traditional day and for the history of Sri Lanka's first Test.
How far apart are the SSC and P Sara Oval?
The SSC in Cinnamon Gardens and the P Sara Oval in Borella are about 10 to 15 minutes apart by tuk-tuk, depending on traffic. Both can easily be seen on the same morning.
Which ground hosted Sri Lanka's first Test?
The P Sara Oval hosted Sri Lanka's first Test, against England, in February 1982. The SSC hosted its first Test in 1984 and has since become one of the country's main Test venues.
Which ground has more shade?
The SSC has more covered seating than the P Sara Oval, which makes a long Test day more comfortable. At the Oval, covered seats are limited and sell first, so buy early or bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Night matches are rare at both.
Can I watch domestic cricket at the SSC and P Sara Oval?
Yes. Both grounds host domestic first-class and limited-overs matches, often free or cheap to attend, subject to the clubs' rules. Check Sri Lanka Cricket's domestic schedule or ask at the clubs.
Which ground is better for history lovers?
Both. The P Sara Oval has Sri Lanka's first Test and Bangladesh's 100th Test win. The SSC has the 624 Test partnership, Vaas's 8 for 19 and a long Royal-Thomian tradition. Seeing both gives a full picture.
Can I visit the grounds without a match?
Both are private club grounds, so entry outside match days is at the clubs' discretion. Both can usually be seen from the gate. Ask politely, and accept a refusal if training or maintenance is under way.