Key Highlights
- Sri Lanka Cricket instructs players to remain in Pakistan despite bomb blast.
- Bomb explosion outside a court building in Islamabad kills 12 and injures 27.
- Sri Lanka’s tour continues as planned with two matches rescheduled.
- Pakistan Cricket Board confirms safety measures for the visiting team.
Cricket Tour Continues Amid Security Concerns in Pakistan
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has instructed its players to remain in Pakistan despite a recent bomb blast that killed 12 people and injured 27 outside a court building in the capital city, Islamabad. The incident took place on November 11, 2025, just hours before Sri Lanka was set to play their one-day international (ODI) match against Pakistan.
Players’ Safety Concerns
The cricketing community has been abuzz with concern following the terrorist attack. Several players from the Sri Lankan national team had initially expressed fears for their safety, leading them to request early return to their home country. However, SLC has issued a firm directive, stating that any player who returns against the board’s instructions will face a formal review and potential consequences.
Continued Tour Despite Security Risks
The decision to continue the tour was made in line with the ongoing cricket series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The first ODI had gone ahead as scheduled, despite the suicide bombing that occurred in adjacent Islamabad. The second match has been rescheduled for a day later, while the third is set to be played on Sunday instead of Saturday.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed increased security measures around the visiting team and assured Sri Lankan players of their safety. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with the team at their hotel in Islamabad on November 12, 2025, to personally address their concerns and reassure them about the safety arrangements.
Historical Context
This incident comes into sharp focus against a backdrop of heightened security challenges in Pakistan. Six Sri Lankan players were wounded in March 2009 when gunmen opened fire on their team bus as it was driving to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for a Test match. This led international teams to avoid Pakistan for nearly a decade, highlighting the ongoing security concerns.
Despite these past challenges, the current tour indicates a cautious optimism from both SLC and PCB regarding the safety measures put in place. The cricketing spirit of sportsmanship and solidarity is evident as both boards work towards ensuring the continuation of the series without further disruption.
Conclusion
The decision to continue the Sri Lanka-Pakistan ODI series underlines the resilience of international sports in the face of security threats. While safety remains a paramount concern, both teams have demonstrated their commitment to upholding the spirit of cricket and ensuring that the tour proceeds as planned.
