Sri Lanka Air Force Headquarters came alive with cricket fever as the Sri Lankan Team arrived at the Rifle Green prior to their departure to Hambantota on 18th February, 2011.

The team was flown to the match venue in two Mi-17s of SLAF ahead of their first encounter against Canada in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 on Sunday.

Director Health Services, Air Vice Marshal NH Gunaratna and Director Air Operation, Air Vice Marshal Kolitha Gunatilleke welcomed the cricket stars to the Rifle Green premises.

Wing Commander Athula Nanayakkara, Commanding Officer of 28 Regiment Wing presented a bouquet of flowers the Vice Captain of the Sri Lankan team Mahela Jayawardana, in the absence of Captain Kumara Sangakkara who is presently in Bangladesh.  

Officers and Airmen thronged to cheer the team who looked cool and confident as they embarked on the flight.