In the wake of a shocking suicide bombing in Islamabad, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made it clear to its players and staff that abandoning the Pakistan tour without prior approval will result in disciplinary action. The warning comes amid rising fears for the safety of the touring team, following the tragic attack in the Pakistani capital on Tuesday.
The bombing, which occurred near the area where the Sri Lankan team is staying, has left several players deeply unsettled. According to sources, a number of players and coaching staff reportedly sought emergency meetings with team management and security officials, voicing their desire to return home immediately. Talks continued late into the night between the SLC, PCB, and Pakistani security authorities to assess the safety situation.
As a precaution, the remaining ODIs of the series have been postponed by one day. Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the second ODI will now be held on 14 November, with the third ODI rescheduled for 16 November, instead of the original dates of 13 and 15 November.
| ODI | Original Date | New Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd ODI | 13 November | 14 November |
| 3rd ODI | 15 November | 16 November |
The SLC reiterated that security measures have been strengthened to protect the players. The board stated, “Any individual who ignores our directive and returns home prematurely will be subject to a formal disciplinary review, and action will be taken as deemed necessary.”
Despite the fears, the SLC remains resolute about continuing the tour. Pakistan narrowly won the opening ODI by six runs, and the team is also scheduled to participate in a tri-nation T20 series involving Zimbabwe and Pakistan.
Chairman Naqvi is expected to meet the Sri Lankan players to personally assure them of their safety, following discussions with Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner Fred Siriwardena, who reportedly approved of the security protocols in place.
The resumption of international cricket in Pakistan has always been fraught with challenges since the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore. The current tour underscores the delicate balance between ensuring player safety and fulfilling cricketing commitments, as the boards strive to maintain confidence in Pakistan as a secure venue for international sport.