Asalanka Faces Heat Over Pakistan Tour Exit
Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka came under severe scrutiny after reports claimed he urged teammates to quit the Pakistan tour recently.
Local media suggested Asalanka influenced players by stressing heightened security worries emerging after the recent explosion reported in Islamabad city.
Sri Lanka Cricket subsequently recalled Asalanka and reportedly began considering disciplinary measures over his alleged role in discouraging participation there.
Dasun Shanaka assumed captaincy for the Tri-Nation T20I series in Pakistan after the removal of the Asalanka created leadership uncertainty within squad.
Security around the visiting team intensified as officials reviewed arrangements and monitored concerns expressed by several Sri Lankan players recently.
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PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the visitors in Rawalpindi to assure them that comprehensive security measures were firmly implemented.
Naqvi examined deployed officers and instructed law enforcement personnel to maintain strict vigilance throughout the Sri Lankan scheduled matches.
Naqvi also thanked Sri Lankan players during practice, calling their continued participation a message for peace and resilience against terrorism.
It is worth noting that Asalanka was part of the Mumbai Indians as a replacement player during the IPL 2025 playoffs.
