Teams from Australia, Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom and West Indies represented by their Embassies participated in this competitive event, showcasing the game of cricket in the United States.

The Sri Lanka team comprising of cricketing talent of some in the Sri Lankan community in the Washington region and the Embassy, competed with other teams in this tournament. This daylong event was attended by American well-wishers and American communities of each country was embellished with traditional food and music, manifesting the character of each participating country. The Sri Lanka tent manifested a festive atmosphere with Ceylon Tea and Kottu Roti  being made available for those visiting the enclosure.

Ms. Nisha Biswal, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia of the US Department of State attended this event, visiting each country enclosure from South Asia.

A Reception was hosted by the Embassy of Bangladesh in the evening to commemorate the occasion and for prize distribution. Ambassador Prasad Kariyawasam in his remarks complimented the organizers and all participants and stated “The game of Cricket, the most popular sport in South Asia region, is more than a sport for the public in countries that enjoy Cricket. It is a way of life and an opportunity for friendship, manifesting social cohesion, transcending ethnic and cultural barriers. It is a game that link and create networks among peoples of different regions and cultures.” (MEA/KH)