The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has instructed the players to continue the Pakistan tour as scheduled.
According to details, in a media release, the SLC said: “The board was informed by the team management this morning that several members of the national team currently touring Pakistan have requested to return home, citing safety concerns.”
“Following this development, the SLC immediately engaged with the players and assured them that all such concerns are being duly addressed in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of every member of the touring party,” said the statement.
The SLC maintained. “In this context, the SLC has instructed all players, support staff, and team management to continue with the tour as scheduled.”
“However, should any player or member of the touring party decide to return to Sri Lanka despite the directive issued by the SLC to continue with the tour, Sri Lanka Cricket will immediately send replacements to ensure that the tour, Sri Lanka Cricket will immediately send replacements to ensure that the tour continues without interruption,” the SLC said.
“If any player, players or member of the support staff return despite the SLC’s directives, a formal review will be conducted to assess their actions, and an appropriate decision will be made upon the conclusion of the review,” added the statement.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi said: "Grateful to the Sri Lankan team for their decision to continue the Pakistan tour. The spirit of sportsmanship and solidarity shines bright."
"The ODI matches between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be played on 14th and 16th November in Rawalpindi," added Naqvi.
Subsequently, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar expressed his gratitude to the SLC for standing with the cricket and continuing the ongoing tour to Pakistan.
Meanwhile, speaking to Samaa TV, former Pakistan Test cricket Abdur Rauf appreciated the decision of the SLC for continuing the tour to Pakistan. He urged the fans to also support the Sri Lankan team in the 2nd ODI at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.
He slammed the Indian media for spreading the negative propaganda against Pakistan.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has acknowledged the decision of the Sri Lanka administration and board for standing with the cricket and continuing their visit to Pakistan.
Chaudhry said: "The enemy is facing continuous defeat. The Pakistani nation and the armed forces will end the menace of terrorism."
