Sri Lankan Players Seek Early Exit From Tour Over Security Concerns
A suicide bombing in Islamabad has severely disrupted the ongoing cricket tour of Sri Lanka, forcing the cancellation of the second ODI scheduled for tomorrow.
Following the attack, 16 Sri Lankan players reportedly decided to leave Pakistan immediately, creating uncertainty about the continuation of the ODI series in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket are holding urgent consultations to evaluate the situation and explore options for resuming the tour safely.
Sri Lanka Cricket is reportedly preparing a replacement squad to continue matches if security conditions are deemed satisfactory for players and support staff.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to meet the Sri Lankan players personally to address their concerns and reassure them regarding full security arrangements.
Security around Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has been tightened following the Islamabad blast, which killed 11 people and injured several others across the capital.
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Authorities have deployed additional personnel and implemented strict monitoring to ensure the safety of visiting players, officials, and spectators during all upcoming fixtures.
Sri Lanka Cricket has reiterated that it remains committed to completing the tour, subject to safety assessments and the availability of participating players.
The bombing has sparked fear and anxiety among the squad, recalling past attacks that have disrupted international cricket tours in Pakistan historically.
Both boards are in constant communication to stabilize the situation and make contingency plans for revised schedules and squad management moving forward.
Further updates on replacement players, revised fixtures, and potential travel arrangements are expected following the conclusion of high-level security and administrative meetings.
