President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today (12) assured that every possible measure will be taken to ensure the safety of the Sri Lankan cricket team currently participating in the Twenty20 triangular cricket series being held in Pakistan.
Heightened attention has been drawn to security arrangements following a bomb blast in Islamabad, Pakistan. The incident has raised concerns over the safety of players and officials attending the ongoing cricket tournament.
The Sri Lankan cricket team is currently in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, for the Tri-Nation T20 Series featuring Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe. So far, one match has been completed, with several more scheduled to take place in the coming days.
President Dissanayake personally spoke with Sri Lanka Cricket Board Chairman and Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya, assuring them that every necessary step would be taken to guarantee the team’s security throughout the tournament.
Dedicated Security
According to Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyyakontha, discussions have already been held with senior Pakistani defence officials to coordinate special security arrangements. The Sri Lankan team has been provided with enhanced protection, including dedicated security personnel at their hotel and travel routes.
Recalling the 1996 Cricket World Cup, when Pakistan stood by Sri Lanka despite bomb threats that led several other teams to withdraw, the President expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for its past support. He also advised the team to remain in the country until the conclusion of the series as a gesture of appreciation and solidarity.
President Dissanayake further confirmed that the Sri Lankan government will continue to work closely with Pakistani authorities to ensure the team’s safety and well-being for the duration of the tournament.