The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has reaffirmed that its ongoing tour of Pakistan will continue as scheduled, dismissing speculation of a pullout following a deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed 12 and injured 27 on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
The announcement drew widespread praise from Pakistani officials, who hailed it as a gesture of confidence in the country\u2019s security and in cricket\u2019s resilience amid adversity.<\/p>\n
SLC Confirms Team to Stay in Pakistan<\/p>\n
Speaking to Geo News, the Sri Lankan team manager confirmed that \u201cno player is returning home\u201d and that \u201call Sri Lankan cricketers will remain in Pakistan.\u201d<\/p>\n
In an official statement, SLC clarified that if any player still opts to return home despite the assurances, replacements will be arranged immediately to ensure the series proceeds without disruption. However, such decisions would require formal review by the cricket board after the tour.<\/p>\n
Assurances on Security and Coordination<\/p>\n
SLC acknowledged that some squad members had initially expressed concerns following the Islamabad bombing, but the board swiftly engaged with players to reassure them that all safety measures were in place in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n
The board directed all players, coaches, and support staff to continue the tour as planned, adding that any individual defying the directive would face disciplinary action after the series.<\/p>\n
Pakistan Enhances Security for Sri Lankan Team<\/p>\n
Following the incident, PCB Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi ordered enhanced security measures for the visiting team. Sources confirmed that Naqvi would personally meet the Sri Lankan squad to brief them on the foolproof security protocols in place.<\/p>\n
The first ODI, played in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, went ahead as scheduled, with Pakistan defeating Sri Lanka by six runs despite the tragic events earlier in the day. However, subsequent fixtures have been rescheduled from November 13 and 15 to November 14 and 16 as part of logistical adjustments.<\/p>\n
Government and PCB Express Gratitude<\/p>\n
In a statement, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar thanked the Sri Lankan team, saying:<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are honoured by your presence and your commitment to the spirit of the game.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOur special thanks to the Sri Lankan team for visiting Pakistan and displaying great sportsmanship. Our best wishes and appreciation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sri Lankan Envoy Satisfied with Security Arrangements<\/p>\n
The developments followed a meeting between Sri Lankan High Commissioner and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad, attended by senior officials including the Islamabad Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police.<\/p>\n
During the briefing, Pakistani authorities outlined comprehensive security arrangements for the Sri Lankan contingent.<\/p>\n
Naqvi reaffirmed:<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Sri Lankan players are our state guests. Ensuring their complete safety and comfort is our top priority.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Sri Lankan envoy expressed condolences for the victims of the attack and appreciated Pakistan\u2019s efforts, saying he was \u201cfully satisfied with the security measures\u201d provided to the team.<\/p>\n
–Agencies<\/p>\n
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The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has reaffirmed that its ongoing tour of Pakistan will continue as scheduled, dismissing speculation of a pullout following a deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed 12 and injured 27 on Tuesday. The announcement drew widespread praise from Pakistani officials, who hailed it as a gesture of confidence in the […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5333,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5331","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-leadstories","category-local"],"yoast_head":"\n