The Festival of Cricket (FoC), the largest community event in the United Kingdom, was held on 07 July 2024 at Hainault Recreation Grounds, Ilford under the patronage of the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the UK, Rohitha Bogollagama. The FoC is a highly anticipated annual social event among the British Sri Lankan community, which brings the largest overseas Sri Lankan community together in the spirit of cricket.
In his message, delivered by Deputy High Commissioner Manorie Mallikaratchy, High Commissioner Bogollagama emphasized the importance of sports as a powerful tool for public diplomacy. He praised the Festival of Cricket Committee for their dedication and efforts in organizing the event, which serves as a platform for bringing the community together.
High Commissioner Bogollagama highlighted the Sri Lankan Government's commitment, under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, to fostering development through reconciliation. He shared the President’s vision of reaching out to the overseas Sri Lankan community to embrace the message of reconciliation, equality, and equity.
Later in the day, High Commissioner Bogollagama attended the event, where he met with former Sri Lanka Cricket Captain Arjuna Ranatunga, visited various stalls at the Festival of Cricket, and engaged with the community members. The Festival of Cricket continues to be a symbol of unity and cultural celebration, reinforcing the strong ties within the Sri Lankan community in the UK and promoting a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect through sports.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
London
11 July 2024
