Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has taken a tough stand after a shocking bomb blast in Islamabad created fear among the national players during their ongoing tour of Pakistan. The SLC has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone who tries to withdraw from the Pakistan series midway.
The move has left many Sri Lankan players worried. Several of them have reportedly told the SLC that they want to return home after the deadly blast in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad. This suicide bomb blast came just a day after a similar blast in India’s capital, Delhi, near the iconic Red Fort.
Sri Lanka Cricket issues stern warning as players panic after deadly Islamabad bombing
This suicide attack outside a court in Islamabad killed 12 people and injured 27 others. The blast took place just hours before the first ODI in Rawalpindi. Despite the tragedy, the match went ahead as planned, with Pakistan beating 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 take place in Rawalpindi on Thursday, November 13.
Following the Islamabad attack, the SLC stepped in quickly to calm things down. The board assured the players that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the local authorities have taken extra security steps to make sure every member of the touring squad remains safe. Security around the team’s hotel, ground, and travel routes has been tightened further.
Board confirms Sri Lankan players expressed desire to return home over safety concerns
Even the SLC issued a strong message to the team, clearly stating that the tour will continue as planned and that no one is allowed to leave Pakistan without the board’s permission.
The players, support staff, and team management have been instructed to stay together and complete the tour. The SLC said in an official statement, “Sri Lanka Cricket 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.”
The board further added, “Following this development, SLC immediately engaged with the players and assured them that all such concerns are being dutifully 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.”
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SLC vows to continue Pakistan tour, threatens action against withdrawals
The board added that anyone who decides to return home against these instructions will face a formal review once they are back in Sri Lanka. It also mentioned that if any player still refuses to play, they will be immediately replaced to ensure the series continues smoothly and without interruption.
The Sri Lanka board also insisted that it remains committed to completing the Pakistan tour despite the difficult situation. It emphasized that both boards have worked hard to make this series possible and that all efforts are being made to protect everyone involved.
The statement further reads: “…should any player or member of the touring party decide to return to Sri Lanka despite the directive issued by SLC to continue with the tour, Sri Lanka Cricket will immediately send replacements to ensure that the tour continues without interruption.”
“If any player, players, or member of the support staff return despite 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.”
SLC: Tour of Pakistan continues as planned. Players raising safety concerns assured of full protection with PCB & authorities. Replacements ready if anyone leaves. No disruptions. #SLvPAK #Cricket pic.twitter.com/Srb2Aawz4X
— Sri Lanka Tweet 🇱🇰 (@SriLankaTweet) November 12, 2025
