Reply to the article Published in the Lankadeepa (16.01.2004)

This refers to the article published in today's Lankadeepa (16th January 2004) by Prasad Sampath Jayasinghe.

Firstly, Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to state that a good working relationship has been maintained with the Cricket Australia (Australian Cricket Board). The up coming series is easily the most look forward series, because Australia are the current World Champions, in both forms of cricket (Test and One Day Internationals).

This series gives Sri Lanka a chance to improve their International Standing and display their Professional ability as a World Class Team against the current World Champions.

The Australian Squad is scheduled in Sri Lanka early next month. On a special request made by Sri Lanka Cricket and further proof of the good understanding that exist between the two Boards Cricket Australia agreed to increase the matches from 3 One-dayer's to 5 One-dayer's which means Sri Lanka's Cricket loving public gets the chance to see World Champions in action.

The England Tour of Sri Lanka last December saw the arrival of thousands of overseas spectators to witness the matches, and Sri Lanka Cricket catered to all their requirements assuring their contribution to the economy as well.

Sri Lanka Cricket with their experience and expertise now look forward for the Australian's visiting Sri Lanka this year and cater to the exciting Cricket the tour promises for both Local and visiting spectators and also contribute to the promotion of Sri Lanka tourism future with the matches being played around the Country.