Despite the fact that twelve people were killed and several others injured in a suicide bombing in Islamabad, the Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan is continuing as scheduled. Earlier reports had suggested that the second 1-Day International might be called off after 16 Sri Lankan players voiced a preference to return home. However, both cricket boards have now reconfirmed that the series is going ahead.
PCB and SLC Officials are now coordinating closely to reassure players and stabilise things across both cricket boards. Security measures have been stepped up markedly around Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where the remaining matches are scheduled.
More checkpoints have been set up and there is a higher level of surveillance; security has been strengthened at the teams’ hotel as well. All safety measures are being taken to ensure that the series can proceed without a hitch.
Sri Lanka Cricket, although shocked by the tragic events, has stated clearly that it intends to complete its tour. Both boards stressed that cricket must keep going – it is a symbol of resistance and unity for these two nations.
Also Read:
Islamabad G11 Explosion Confirmed as a Suicide
Pakistani-Sri Lankan relations in the field of cricket date back a long time. The bus carrying the Sri Lankan team was attacked near Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on 3 Mar 2009, killing six police officers and two civilians while seven players and staff were injured. This incident completely stopped international cricket in Pakistan for years.
In 2017, Sri Lanka, the first big team to tour Pakistan since the attack, indicating that Pakistan is once again a safe place for cricket. Thilanga Sumathipala at that time, president of Sri Lanka Cricket highlighted Pakistan’s contribution to world cricket and called for greater solidarity. This tour has brought back international cricket to Pakistan, laying an example for the future.
Today, despite fresh security concerns, the cooperative spirit between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is unabated. Both boards are committed to keeping their cricket connection alive; here, even when the going gets tough, sport can still bind Nations and give them the strength to stand up again.
Follow Gofrixty on | Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube
