SLC Orders Players to Stay in Pakistan After Bombing

Some Sri Lankan cricketers requested to return home from their Pakistan tour on Wednesday following a suicide bombing in Islamabad, which killed 12 people. However, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Board issued a firm directive instructing all players and staff to continue the tour or face consequences.

Sri Lanka is touring Pakistan this month, playing three one-day internationals (ODIs) followed by a Twenty20 tri-series with Zimbabwe. The second ODI was scheduled for Thursday in Rawalpindi, a city only about 20 km (12 miles) from Islamabad. The bombing caused concerns among several players, who reportedly asked to leave for safety reasons.

In response, the SLC stated that it had engaged with the players and assured them that all concerns were being addressed. The board coordinated closely with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the touring party. Despite these reassurances, the SLC emphasized that players, team management, and support staff must continue the tour as scheduled.

The SLC also warned that any player who chooses to leave would be immediately replaced to avoid disrupting the tour. A formal review would follow to assess such actions, with appropriate decisions taken afterward. The board did not disclose how many players or staff had requested to return home.

The PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s federal interior minister, confirmed that the remaining two ODIs would take place on Friday and Sunday in Rawalpindi. He expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan team for continuing the tour and praised their spirit of sportsmanship and solidarity.

Pakistan has faced challenges in hosting international cricket due to past security incidents. In 2009, gunmen attacked a bus carrying Sri Lankan players in Lahore, injuring six players and causing international teams to avoid Pakistan. Since then, Pakistan has improved security measures, particularly in major cities, allowing international cricket to return. Sri Lanka previously toured Pakistan in 2019, marking a successful comeback for test cricket in the country.

In the current series, Pakistan won the first ODI held in Rawalpindi on Tuesday by six runs. Despite the recent security incident, both boards are determined to complete the tour as planned. The matches continue to provide an opportunity for players to demonstrate skill and resilience under challenging circumstances.

Officials from both countries highlighted that safety protocols have been strengthened and that all necessary measures are in place to protect players and staff. The decision by Sri Lankan cricketers to remain and complete the series is seen as a show of confidence in these security arrangements and a demonstration of professional commitment.

The tour will continue to be closely monitored, with authorities and cricket boards working together to ensure smooth conduct of the remaining matches. Fans in both countries are eagerly watching the series, which not only tests cricketing skills but also reflects the determination and resilience of players amid unexpected challenges.