Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has taken a tough stance after a shocking bomb blast in Islamabad has created a scare among the national players during the ongoing tour of Pakistan. SLC has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone who tries to withdraw from the Pakistan series.
This move has left many Sri Lankan players worried. Many of them have reportedly told the SLC that they want to return home after the deadly blast in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad. The suicide bombing occurred just a day after a similar blast near the iconic Red Fort in the Indian capital Delhi.
Sri Lanka Cricket has issued a strict warning as players panic after the deadly bomb blast in Islamabad.
12 people were killed and 27 others were injured in this suicide attack outside a court in Islamabad. This blast took place a few hours before the first ODI in Rawalpindi. Despite the tragedy, the match went ahead as planned, with Pakistan defeating Sri Lanka by six runs.
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Incidentally, the Sri Lanka cricket team is currently staying in Islamabad, and their next ODI match is scheduled to be held in Rawalpindi on Thursday, November 13.
After the Islamabad attack, SLC took immediate steps to defuse the matter. The board assured the players that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities have taken additional security measures to ensure that every member of the touring team remains safe. Security has been tightened around the team’s hotel, grounds and travel routes.
The board confirmed that Sri Lankan players have expressed their desire to return home due to security concerns
Even SLC issued a strong message to the team, clearly stating that the tour will continue as planned and no one is allowed to leave Pakistan without the permission of the board.
The players, support staff and team management have been instructed to complete the tour by staying together. “Sri Lanka Cricket has been informed this morning by the team management that a number of members of the national team currently touring Pakistan have requested to return home citing security concerns,” SLC said in an official statement.
The board further said, “Following this development, SLC immediately communicated with the players and assured them that all such concerns are being addressed in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of each member of the touring party.”
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SLC vows to continue Pakistan tour, threatens action against return
The board said that anyone who decides to return home despite these instructions will face a formal review upon their return to Sri Lanka. It also mentioned that if any player still refuses to play, they will be replaced immediately to ensure that the series continues smoothly and without any interruptions.
The Sri Lanka board also stressed that it is committed to completing the Pakistan tour despite the difficult circumstances. It stressed that both boards have worked hard to make this series possible and all efforts are being made to protect everyone involved.
The statement further read: “…if any player or member of the touring party decides to return to Sri Lanka despite the direction issued by SLC to continue the tour, Sri Lanka Cricket will immediately send replacements to ensure that the tour continues without any interruption.”
“If a player, player or member of support staff returns despite SLC instructions, a formal review will be conducted to assess their actions, and an appropriate decision will be made at the conclusion of the review.”
SLC: Pakistan tour continues as planned. Players who raised security concerns were assured of full protection with the PCB and officials. If someone leaves, a replacement is ready. No interference. #SLvPAK #Cricket pic.twitter.com/Srb2Aawz4X
– Sri Lanka Tweet (@SriLankaTweet) 12 November 2025
