Sri Lankan Players Return

Which Sri Lankan Players Wanted to Return Home After Terrorist Attack in Pakistan?

Arun Das

Published - Nov 13, 2025, 05:13 AM

3 min

Add

As Preferred Source

The safety and security concerns have risen in today's world following the terrorist attacks that have been happening around the world. Recently, an attack happened in Pakistan's Islamabad, which has terrified the Sri Lankan players who are present in the country for a 3-match ODI series. It is certainly a major setback for Pakistan, as this isn't the first time something like this has happened in the country. Following the attack, the board was requested about some Sri Lankan Players return and leave Pakistan due to fear and security concerns.

Eight Sri Lankan Players Request to Leave Pakistan Amid Islamabad Blast Fears

An‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ unexpected development in Sri Lanka’s tour of Pakistan has forced eight players to speak to SLC about their wish to go back home, as they were worried about their security following a bomb blast in Islamabad. SLC has not yet disclosed the players' names. Moreover, the attack that killed at least 12 people has significantly increased the fear of the Sri Lankan team since their matches are going to be played in the vicinity of Rawalpindi. The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has recognized the players' appeal, but they have requested them to continue with the tour. While the officers have put the team at ease with the assurance of tightened security, the players’ discomfort remains intact.

Moreover,‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ a few of the players are skeptical even after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), one of the richest cricket board in the world, promised “security at the highest level”, a security plan that involves the army, rangers, and intelligence agencies. Following the players' request, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner called on the interior minister to talk about the security arrangements. The statement was released by SLC, stating:

Following this development, the SLC immediately engaged with the players and assured them that all such concerns are being duly addressed in close consultation with the Pakistan cricket board and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of every member of the touring party.

SLC Urges Sri Lanka Players to Continue Tour

After‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ an Islamabad blast, the Sri Lanka cricket team got in touch with SLC and requested them to return without completing the series. Although SLC had heard of the demand of eight players to be sent back home, it has not complied with their request. The attack, which occurred near Rawalpindi, brought safety issues to the team. As it was anticipated, the PCB and the Sri Lankan High Commission had a conversation with SLC management, and after reviewing the situation, the board gave a green signal to the SLC team for the continuation of the tour and assured them of modern security.

Hence, turning down the players' request, the board threatened them to continue the tour or else a ‘review’ would be held against them after their return, because if the players are not ready to play, it would result in the PAK vs SL ODI series being postponed and fans missing the action of one of the best cricket teams in the world. The board statement said

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.