Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has coordinated its national team to proceed with its visit to Pakistan, despite a few players expressing a desire to return home after a dangerous bombing in Islamabad.
Concerns developed inside the Sri Lankan camp after a suicide attack in Pakistan’s capital on Tuesday killed at least 12 individuals and injured 27 outside a nearby court. The appalling occurrence raised fears among the visiting players, provoking demands to leave the nation early.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, Sri Lanka Cricket affirmed that the team has been instructed to continue with the planned matches. The board cautioned that any player or support staff member who takes off against orders may confront a “formal review” and disciplinary action.
The board said that if any player or support staff member ignores SLC’s instructions and leaves, they will formally review the case and take appropriate action. They also added that they will arrange replacements as needed to ensure the tour continues smoothly.
Pakistan Cricket Board Alters Schedule
Following discourses between both sides, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) declared minor changes to the arrangement plan. The moment One Day Worldwide (ODI), initially set for Thursday, has been moved to Friday, whereas the third ODI will presently take place on Sunday in Rawalpindi.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi communicated appreciation to the Sri Lankan side for their commitment and sportsmanship in spite of the tense situation.
“We’re grateful to the Sri Lankan team for choosing to proceed with the Pakistan tour,” Naqvi posted on social media. “Their spirit of solidarity is really commendable.”
Security Fixed After Islamabad Blast
Pakistani specialists have essentially expanded security measures around the Sri Lankan squad. Authorities affirmed that Naqvi actually met the players at their Islamabad inn on Wednesday to reassure them of their safety.
The continuous three-match ODI arrangement started on Tuesday in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan edged out Sri Lanka by six runs in a closely contested match. The diversion went ahead as arranged, in spite of the adjacent blast in Islamabad on the same day.
Historical Setting: 2009 Lahore Attack
The recent incident reminded everyone of the 2009 Lahore attack, when gunmen shot at the Sri Lankan team bus, injuring six players on their way to Gaddafi Stadium. That ambush led to a decade-long nonappearance of worldwide cricket in Pakistan, with teams continuing visits as it were in later years under strict security arrangements.
Following the ODI arrangement, Sri Lanka will take part in a T20 tri-nation arrangement with Pakistan and Zimbabwe, planned from November 17 to 29.
