India, Pakistan T20 clash draws 100,000 fans, hotels, airfares surge

India vs Pakistan T20 clash draws 100,000 fans, hotels and airfares surge

The India vs Pakistan match of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played on the 15th at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, has attracted over 100,000 fans, a Cricket Board official said.

“We are made to understand that all tickets have been sold,” he said, noting that the venue can accommodate only around 35,000 spectators.

Meanwhile, Colombo’s hotel sector is experiencing a strong surge in demand during the same period, with room rates at leading hotels reportedly rising to more than double their usual prices amid exceptionally high demand.

M. Shanthikumar, former President, Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) said city hotels, which average around 55% occupancy during this period, are now witnessing nearly 90% occupancy levels, with several leading properties already fully sold out.

“We also observe a price increase of around 40 to 50% due to high demand,” he added.

Due to the ICC T20 World Cup and the high-profile India vs Pakistan clash, airfares to Colombo from India and the UAE have also soared significantly as thousands of fans rush to secure last minute travel arrangements.