Sri Lanka cricketers stay in Pakistan following a suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed 12 people, as the board mandates the tour’s continuation with enhanced security from Pakistani forces.
The decision underscores cricket’s role in fostering bilateral ties across South Asia, where shared sporting passion often bridges geopolitical divides and promotes regional stability amid ongoing security challenges.
SLC Instructs Team to Continue Tour Post-Blast
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) issued a firm directive on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, ordering its national team and support staff to remain in Pakistan and complete the ongoing white-ball tour. The move came hours after several players expressed grave concerns over their safety following a suicide bombing outside a court in Islamabad on Tuesday, November 11.
The blast, which claimed 12 lives and injured 27 others, occurred just hours before Pakistan’s narrow six-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening one-day international (ODI) at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Players’ families back home voiced alarm, prompting requests from squad members to depart early. SLC’s statement emphasised coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities to address these fears.
“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,” the board stated. SLC added that replacements would be dispatched promptly to avoid disruptions.
Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya reinforced the board’s stance, noting, “The support staff were very clear that we wanted to stay and complete the tour. But as the team management on tour, we heard the players’ concerns, and made sure we addressed them at length.” This SLC instructs team continue tour post-blast approach aims to uphold commitments while prioritising welfare.
The tour, comprising a three-match ODI series followed by a T20 tri-nation event with Zimbabwe, represents a significant step in reviving international cricket in Pakistan. Since 2019, when Sri Lanka hosted the Asia Cup on Pakistan’s behalf due to security issues, such bilateral engagements have signalled progress.
Pakistan Army Security for Sri Lanka Cricket 2025
In response to the incident, Pakistan has escalated security protocols for the visiting Sri Lanka cricketers stay in Pakistan. The government handed over protection duties to army and paramilitary units, deploying elite forces around team facilities and travel routes.
Reports confirm that soldiers from the Pakistan Army now guard the team’s hotel in Islamabad and escort convoys to Rawalpindi. This Pakistan army security Sri Lanka cricket 2025 measure includes armoured vehicles, aerial surveillance, and restricted access zones at venues. Interior Minister and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi oversaw the implementation, stating that “foolproof arrangements” would prevent any recurrence.
A PCB briefing detailed these enhancements, assuring team manager Ronnie Siriweera of their robustness. Adjustments include a dedicated elevator and dining area at the hotel for exclusive use by the squad. The second ODI, rescheduled from Thursday to Friday, November 14, and the third from Saturday to Sunday, November 16, will proceed under this fortified setup.
These steps reflect Pakistan’s broader efforts to host global events securely. Data from the PCB indicates over 500 personnel, including army troops, are involved, costing an estimated PKR 200 million. The tri-series matches, now all in Rawalpindi from November 18-24, will similarly benefit from this vigilance.
Mohsin Naqvi Meets Sri Lanka Players on Safety
Mohsin Naqvi’s direct intervention highlighted the urgency of the situation. On Wednesday, he visited the team’s Islamabad hotel alongside security officials to personally reassure players. Naqvi, in a folded hands gesture of gratitude, thanked them for choosing to stay.
“Grateful to the Sri Lankan team for their decision to continue the Pakistan tour. The spirit of sportsmanship and solidarity shines bright,” Naqvi posted on social media. This Mohsin Naqvi meets Sri Lanka players safety encounter eased immediate anxieties, with players citing his assurances as pivotal.
Naqvi also reviewed stadium perimeters in Rawalpindi, coordinating with army commanders. His dual role as minister and PCB head facilitated swift action, blending diplomacy with logistics. Sri Lankan skipper, speaking anonymously, noted the meeting fostered trust, though vigilance remains high.
The PCB echoed this in a press release titled “Cricket Wins,” declaring the series would proceed as planned with “unwavering commitment to safety.” Players from both sides exchanged messages of support, with Pakistan’s squad hosting a welcome session for their guests.
Background: Echoes of 2009 Lahore Attack
This episode revives memories of the 2009 Lahore bus attack, where gunmen targeted the Sri Lankan team, wounding six players and halting international cricket in Pakistan for a decade. That incident, linked to militant groups, led to neutral venues for Pakistan’s home games until recent hybrid models.
Recovery has been gradual: England’s 2020 tour marked a milestone, followed by Australia’s in 2022. The current series, part of ICC commitments, tests this resurgence. South Asia’s cricket landscape, valued at over USD 2 billion annually, relies on such tours for revenue and unity.
Stakeholders, including the Asian Cricket Council, monitor developments closely. No direct link ties the Islamabad blast to the team, but its proximity mere kilometres from the hotel amplified fears.
What’s Next for the Tour
With the second ODI underway on Friday, November 14, 2025, focus shifts to on-field action. Pakistan leads 1-0; a win for the hosts secures the series. The T20 tri-series opener against Zimbabwe follows on November 18.
SLC has contingency plans, including player rotations if needed. Enhanced Pakistan army security Sri Lanka cricket 2025 will extend through the event, potentially setting a template for future visits. As tensions ease, this resilience bolsters hopes for fuller international calendars in the region.
Sri Lanka cricketers stay in Pakistan not just for cricket, but as a testament to enduring partnerships that transcend borders.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, November 14th, 2025
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