ISLAMABAD: Sri Lankan cricket team was not deterred by Islamabad blast. They are feeling secure and willing to continue their ongoing matches in Pakistan. For this reason, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) said that its players will complete their tour of Pakistan despite safety concerns following a recent suicide blast in Islamabad.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman assured the visiting team of full security during a meeting with Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner Rear Admiral (R) Fred Sreeviratne and the team management. Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police also attended the briefing, outlining the comprehensive security arrangements in place.
According to sources, most Sri Lankan players and coaching staff have agreed to stay in Pakistan. However, the SLC is considering calling up replacements if any player decides to withdraw.
Officials indicated that the series schedule could be slightly adjusted if necessary, but both the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan and the upcoming tri-nation series with Zimbabwe are expected to proceed as planned.
The assurances came after a deadly suicide attack outside Islamabad’s G-11 district and sessions court that killed 12 people and injured 36. Following the incident, several Sri Lankan players voiced concerns over their safety, prompting swift intervention from the PCB and Pakistani authorities.
Sources within the SLC warned that any player who leaves the tour prematurely could face disciplinary action. PCB officials confirmed that the board is coordinating closely with security agencies to ensure the visiting team’s safety throughout the remainder of the tour.
The second ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is scheduled for Thursday in Rawalpindi, while the tri-nation series featuring Zimbabwe will continue as planned.
