Since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war in 2009, former international cricketers, politicians, and NGOs have promoted cricket as a key tool for reconciliation.
Approaching International Day of Peace on September 21st, Dr. Ben Hildred, from Durham University’s Anthropology Department, shares his research on cricket’s role in development and reconciliation efforts in the country.
Today, cricket reigns as Sri Lanka’s national passion, transcending ethnic divides. Once favoured by minority elites, cricket’s popularity soared post-1996 World Cup win, uniting a predominantly Sinhala Buddhist national team. This victory elevated cricket’s status and unity within the country.
To grasp the significance of cricket in society, Hildred conducted ethnographic research in Colombo, engaging with diverse groups. These included amateur teams, coaches, clubs, schools, and NGOs.
Hildred’s academic research critically evaluates the sport’s potential for positive change, having conducted workshops with Sri Lankan coaches to foster critical thinking in athletes, encouraging reflection on societal norms.
Immersed in an amateur cricket club, he explored how sport structures, social relationships and potential for change could challenge assumptions about sports’ transformative power.
