PAK vs SL series to continue? Explaining what happened as Sri Lanka players raise concerns after Pakistan bomb attack

Divy Dubey

•
PAK vs SL series to continue? Explaining what happened as Sri Lanka players raise concerns after Pakistan bomb attack image

The ongoing Pakistan-Sri Lanka ODI series has been thrown into uncertainty after a deadly suicide attack in Islamabad earlier this week. The incident, which killed 12 people and injured 27, reportedly left several Sri Lankan players uneasy about continuing the tour.

Add AllSportsPeople as a preferred news source

The team was nearby in Rawalpindi at the time, where the first ODI went ahead as scheduled just hours after the explosion. Despite the concerns, both boards have decided that the series will proceed under enhanced security arrangements.

Sri Lanka Cricket orders players to stay in Pakistan

Sri Lanka Cricket released a firm statement on Wednesday confirming that the team will stay in Pakistan and complete the series. The board said it had been informed that some players and support staff wanted to return home due to safety fears but were told to remain with the touring party.

SLC added that replacements are ready to be flown in immediately if any member decides to leave, ensuring there are "no disruptions" to the ongoing tour. The statement also warned that any player or staff member who disobeyed the directive could face a "formal review" upon returning to Sri Lanka.

More: CSK retention list for IPL 2026 auction: Full list of retained and released players by Chennai Super Kings ahead of mini auction

The board assured players that it was working closely with the Pakistan Cricket Board and local authorities to guarantee their safety.

PCB strengthens security and revises schedule

In response to the attack, the PCB tightened security around the Sri Lankan team's hotel and travel routes. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi personally met the players in Islamabad and thanked them for choosing to continue the tour.

The PCB also revised the schedule — the second ODI will now be played on Friday and the third on Sunday, both in Rawalpindi.

More: Bangladesh vs Ireland 1st Test: TV channel, online live stream and how to watch BAN vs IRE Tests from India

The series is being closely watched, given the two nations' shared history — including the 2009 Lahore attack on the Sri Lankan team that halted international cricket in Pakistan for nearly a decade.

After the ODIs, Sri Lanka are scheduled to stay on for a T20 tri-series featuring Pakistan and Zimbabwe later this month.

RELATED LINKS:

Editorial Team