ISLAMABAD: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday reaffirmed its commitment to continue the ongoing tour of Pakistan, dispelling speculation about a possible pullout following Tuesday’s deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad that claimed 12 lives.
Assurance Amid Security Concerns
In an official statement, the Sri Lankan board confirmed that all players, coaching staff, and management have been instructed to remain in Pakistan and proceed with the scheduled matches. The decision came after some members of the visiting squad expressed unease about continuing the tour in the wake of the attack.
SLC said it had engaged directly with the players to address their concerns and reassured them that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and security authorities were implementing maximum safety measures. The board emphasized that any player wishing to return home must first undergo a formal review, and immediate replacements would be sent to ensure the series remains uninterrupted.
PCB Strengthens Security
Responding to the situation, PCB Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi ordered an increase in security around the Sri Lankan team. Naqvi also met the visiting players to brief them on the enhanced arrangements and reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to their safety.
The first One-Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and Sri Lanka took place in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, only hours after the bombing, with Pakistan securing a six-run victory. (READ THIS ARTICLE) To ensure smooth logistics, the PCB later adjusted the match dates, rescheduling the remaining ODIs for November 14 and 16 instead of 13 and 15.
Diplomatic and Government Reactions
The Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Pakistan, Rear Admiral (R) Fred Siriweera, met Naqvi and senior officials in Islamabad, where he expressed confidence in the security being provided to his country’s players. Islamabad’s chief commissioner and police chief briefed both delegations on the extensive security layers protecting the team.
Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar thanked the Sri Lankan side, saying Pakistan was “honoured by their presence,” while Defence Minister Khawaja Asif praised the visiting team for their “sportsmanship and courage.”
The Lahore Qalandars franchise also lauded the Sri Lankan team, saying it had “defeated terrorism through its resolve.”
Commitment to Continue Cricket Ties
Naqvi reiterated that Sri Lankan players are “state guests” and that ensuring their safety remains a top priority. The reaffirmation of the tour has been widely welcomed as a sign of resilience and mutual trust between the two cricketing nations, strengthening the spirit of sports diplomacy despite challenges.
