Will SLC's Decision to Continue the Pakistan Tour Amid Safety Concerns Impact the Players?
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Synopsis
Sri Lanka Cricket has instructed its players to continue their tour of Pakistan despite safety concerns following a tragic incident in Islamabad. With a revised schedule announced by PCB, the cricketing fraternity is watching closely. How will this decision affect the team's morale and performance?
Key Takeaways
- SLC has mandated players to continue the tour amid safety concerns.
- Players were warned of a review if they choose to return home.
- The ODI series and T20I tournament schedule has been revised.
- Collaboration with PCB is crucial for player safety.
- Team morale may be impacted by the current situation.
New Delhi, Nov 13 (NationPress) Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has mandated its players to proceed with the tour as planned, despite some squad members expressing a desire to depart Pakistan early due to safety concerns following a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad.
SLC has warned the members of the men's national team and support staff of a formal review if any player chooses to return home against its instructions.
The two teams are currently engaged in a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, having recently played the first match on Tuesday, which the hosts won by six runs. After this bilateral series, Sri Lanka is set to participate in a Tri-series featuring hosts Pakistan and Zimbabwe, kicking off on November 19.
“Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) was notified by team management this morning that multiple national team members currently in Pakistan have requested to return home due to safety issues.
“In light of this situation, SLC promptly communicated with the players and reassured them that all safety concerns are being meticulously addressed in collaboration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and relevant authorities to guarantee the safety and welfare of every member of the touring group.
“Consequently, SLC has directed all players, support staff, and team management to continue with the tour as originally planned. However, if any player or touring member opts to return to Sri Lanka despite SLC’s directive, replacements will be sent immediately to ensure the tour proceeds smoothly.
“Should any players or support staff return against SLC’s guidelines, a formal review will be undertaken to evaluate their actions, and appropriate decisions will be made upon completing the review,” the board stated in a release.
In response to these developments, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced adjustments to the schedule of the ongoing ODI series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as well as the upcoming T20I Tri-Nation Tournament featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
According to the revised schedule, the remaining ODI matches between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will now take place on November 14 and 16 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (RCS), while the T20I Tri-Nation Tournament will be entirely held in Rawalpindi, starting on November 18, with the final set for November 29.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the delicate balance between player safety and the integrity of international sports. The Sri Lanka Cricket's firm stance should be seen as an effort to uphold the spirit of the game, while also addressing legitimate concerns for the players' safety. The ongoing collaboration with PCB is vital to ensure a secure environment for the team.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted SLC to issue a directive to its players?
The directive was issued after several players expressed concerns about their safety following a suicide bombing in Islamabad.
What will happen if a player returns home against SLC's directive?
SLC has warned that a formal review will be conducted for any player who returns home, and replacements will be sent to ensure the tour continues.
What changes were made to the ODI series schedule?
The remaining ODI matches will now take place on November 14 and 16 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with a Tri-Nation Tournament commencing on November 18.
