Military Takes Charge of Cricket Security Following Terror Threat
In a significant security development, the Pakistani government has transferred the protection responsibilities of the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team to the country's military forces. This decisive action came after serial bomb blasts rocked Islamabad, creating serious security concerns that threatened to derail the ongoing cricket tour.
The security transition occurred on November 14 in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan Cricket Board chairman and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that state-level security is now being provided to the visiting team. The army and rangers are now working in conjunction with police forces to ensure complete protection for the Sri Lankan players.
High-Level Interventions Save Cricket Tour
Speaking to media representatives in Rawalpindi on Thursday night after meeting with players from both teams at the stadium, Naqvi revealed that the tour continuation was made possible only through sustained engagement between Pakistani and Sri Lankan leadership. He expressed gratitude toward the Sri Lankan government and cricket board for showing tremendous support for Pakistan cricket during this challenging period.
Naqvi confirmed that several Sri Lankan players had expressed desire to return home immediately following the terror attack in Islamabad due to legitimate security fears. However, the situation was salvaged through direct intervention from the highest levels of both governments.
Army Chief Asim Munir personally spoke with Sri Lankan Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon and provided concrete assurances about the team's safety. The Pakistani military leader's direct involvement proved crucial in convincing the visitors to continue with their scheduled matches.
Player Concerns Addressed Through Direct Dialogue
The PCB chairman disclosed that he conducted an extensive meeting with the Sri Lankan players to personally guarantee their safety and well-being. "They had many concerns, but we tried to allay all of those," Naqvi stated, emphasizing that the Pakistani government takes full responsibility for the team's security.
Further reinforcing the decision, Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake directly communicated with his national team, playing a pivotal role in convincing them to remain in Pakistan. This high-level presidential intervention underscored the importance both nations placed on continuing cricketing relations despite security challenges.
Naqvi expressed particular appreciation for the bravery demonstrated by the Sri Lankan players, who decided to stay in Pakistan despite the security scare. Their commitment to the tour represents a significant vote of confidence in Pakistan's ability to host international sporting events.
This incident recalls the September 2021 episode when the New Zealand cricket team abruptly abandoned their white ball tour of Pakistan after receiving credible intelligence about security threats in Rawalpindi. The successful resolution of the current situation marks an important step in rebuilding Pakistan's reputation as a safe destination for international cricket.
