Quick answer
At the SSC in Colombo, choose a covered stand for shade on a long Test day, an open stand for a cheaper and livelier seat, and a side-on position for the best view of the cricket. The pavilion is usually reserved for members and guests. Shade moves through the day, so check the seating plan and the direction of each stand when tickets go on sale.
Key takeaways
- The SSC is compact, so most seats are close to the field.
- The pavilion is usually reserved for members and invited guests.
- Covered stands are the most comfortable on a long, humid Test day.
- Side-on seats give the best view of field placings and swing.
- Check the official seating plan and prices when tickets go on sale.
How the ground is laid out
The SSC sits on Maitland Place in Cinnamon Gardens, with the pavilion on one side and stands around the rest of the boundary. Trees and neighbouring club buildings frame the ground, and the feel is of an old cricket club rather than a modern arena.
Because the ground is compact, spectators are close to the boundary, and even the far stands give a clear view of the play. The scoreboard and screens help visitors keep track of a long day.
Stand names, the use of temporary seating and the sections open to the public change from series to series, so the plan published with the ticket sale is the one to follow.
- →Compact: close to the action.
- →Pavilion on one side, stands around the rest.
- →Layout and public sections change by series.
The pavilion and members' areas
The SSC pavilion is the heart of the club, with members' seating, dressing rooms and hospitality areas. Access is usually limited to members, their guests and invited visitors, and dress codes may apply.
Visitors who know a member, or who buy a hospitality package where one is offered, may be able to watch from the pavilion side, which gives a fine side-on view and the most comfort.
For most visitors, though, the public stands are the realistic choice, and many have a good view of the pavilion and its history.
- →Usually reserved for members and guests.
- →Dress codes may apply.
- →Hospitality packages are sometimes offered.
Shade and comfort
Colombo is hot and humid for most of the year, and a Test day lasts around seven hours. Covered stands are the most comfortable choice, and they are worth the extra cost if you plan to watch a full day.
In open stands, the sun moves across the ground, so a seat in shade at 10 am can be in full sun by 2 pm. A wide hat, sunscreen, a towel and plenty of water make a long day manageable.
Showers are possible, especially during the monsoon months, so a light rain layer is also useful.
- →Covered stands: best for a full Test day.
- →Open stands: hat, sunscreen and water.
- →A rain layer in the monsoon months.
The best views of the cricket
Side-on seats, looking across the pitch, show field placings, the bounce of the ball and the movement of the fielders best. They are the favourite of serious watchers and of photographers with a long lens, subject to the ground's camera rules.
Seats behind the bowler's arm show the line and length of the bowling and the turn of the ball, which suits Sri Lankan pitches. However, sightscreen areas are kept clear, so the seats immediately behind them may be restricted.
For a mix, many fans move during the day, watching the morning from one side and the afternoon from the other, if the ticket allows it.
Atmosphere at the SSC
SSC crowds for Tests are usually modest, which gives the ground a relaxed, club-like atmosphere. Visiting supporters and local bands add noise at weekends and on the decisive days of a match.
For one-day internationals and the Royal-Thomian big match each March, the ground fills up, and the atmosphere is far livelier. On those days, the open stands near the bands are loud and crowded.
Lankan Stays & Trails can plan a Colombo stay around an SSC match and arrange transport, though tickets should always be bought through official channels.
- →Tests: relaxed, club-like.
- →ODIs and big matches: much livelier.
- →Bands: usually in the open stands.
Match-day tips for the SSC
The SSC is a short tuk-tuk ride from Galle Face, Kollupitiya and most of central Colombo. Traffic is lighter than around the Premadasa, but allow extra time on big match days.
Check the current rules on bags, bottles, food and cameras before you go, as they can change. Bring cash for food and drinks inside.
Nearby, the National Museum and Viharamahadevi Park are good for a break on a rest day or after the close of play.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best seats at the SSC?
For most visitors, a covered side-on seat in a public stand is best: it gives shade and a good view of the cricket. The pavilion is usually reserved for members and guests. Check the official seating plan when tickets go on sale, as public sections change from series to series.
Can visitors sit in the SSC pavilion?
The pavilion is usually reserved for members, their guests and invited visitors, and dress codes may apply. Hospitality packages are sometimes offered for major matches. Most visitors watch from the public stands, many of which have a good view of the pavilion.
Is there shade at the SSC?
Some stands are covered, and these are the most comfortable for a long Test day. Open stands are exposed to the sun, and shade moves during the day. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and plenty of water if you sit in the open.
Is the SSC a good ground for watching Test cricket?
The SSC is one of the best grounds in Sri Lanka for watching a Test closely. It is compact, so most seats are near the boundary, and crowds are usually relaxed. It also has a long history, including the record 624 partnership in 2006.
How do I get to the SSC?
The SSC is on Maitland Place in Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, roughly 10 to 20 minutes by tuk-tuk from Galle Face or Fort depending on traffic. Agree a fare or use a metered or app-based tuk-tuk, and allow extra time on big match days.
Are there grass areas at the SSC?
The SSC is largely seated, with stands around most of the boundary. Informal areas vary by series and by the use of temporary stands, so check the seating plan when buying tickets. Pallekele is the ground to choose if you want grass banks.
Is the SSC crowded for the Royal-Thomian?
Yes. The Royal-Thomian big match, usually held each March, fills the ground with old boys, students and families, with tents, bands and huge crowds. Tickets are usually sold through the schools, so check locally, and expect a very lively day.