In a dramatic intervention, Pakistan's army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir personally stepped in to ensure the continuation of Sri Lanka's cricket tour following a suicide attack in Islamabad earlier this week, according to official statements from Pakistan's interior ministry.
High-Level Intervention Saves Cricket Series
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi revealed to the Senate that Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke directly with top Sri Lankan officials when the visiting players expressed hesitation about continuing their tour after the security incident. The high-level diplomatic effort came after Tuesday's suicide blast in Islamabad that claimed 12 lives.
The Sri Lankan cricket board confirmed late Wednesday that the team's ongoing tour of Pakistan would proceed after what it described as "high-level exchanges" between both nations. This marks a significant moment in Pakistan's efforts to restore international cricket in the country following years of security concerns.
Security Concerns and Reassurances
"Our field marshal himself spoke to their defence minister, secretary and convinced them and assured them fully of providing security," stated Naqvi, who also serves as chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The minister disclosed that the Sri Lankan players had initially "decided to return after the bomb blast occurred."
Naqvi elaborated on the tense situation, noting that Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also spoke with his country's players to reassure them about their safety. The Pakistani interior minister emphasized that extensive security measures have been deployed for the visiting team to address all concerns.
Revised Schedule and Venue Changes
The cricket series, originally scheduled to begin on November 17, will now commence a day later on November 18. In a significant change, all matches will be played in Rawalpindi instead of Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, which was initially chosen to host the T20 games.
The security incident occurred shortly before the first One-Day International between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was set to begin in Rawalpindi, creating immediate concerns about the tour's continuation. The explosion in Islamabad added to existing security apprehensions, particularly given Sri Lanka's traumatic history in Pakistan.
In 2009, the Sri Lankan team bus was attacked by gunmen en route to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, resulting in injuries to six cricketers and the deaths of six Pakistani police officers and two civilians. This historical context made the current security situation particularly sensitive for the visiting team.
In a positive development for Pakistan cricket, Naqvi also confirmed that the Zimbabwe team has arrived in Pakistan, indicating continued international cricket engagements despite security challenges. The successful continuation of the Sri Lanka tour represents a crucial victory for Pakistan's efforts to position itself as a safe destination for international sports events.
