Sri Lanka had obtained Full Member status of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 1981, making them the eighth Test playing nation. The Test match against England in February 1982 was to be their inaugural Test match. Therefore, the tour was met with much enthusiasm, and Sri Lanka had even issued commemorative stamps and coins to mark the event. Celebrations were organized, and even shops and businesses were planned to be closed on the day of the match. Several cricket grounds had been renovated and improved as well. When Sri Lanka won the second One Day International, the spectators rushed the pitch and lit bonfires in the stands, and celebrations went on into the night. However, attendance at the Test match was lower than expected, with about 10,000 spectators present at the start. This was presumed to be due to high ticket prices and television coverage. However, several dignitaries including President J. R. Jayewardene and some government ministers were present at the occasion.