A major drama unfolded on the cricket field in Rawalpindi today. Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi met with the Sri Lankan team players and offered them solace.
This was because a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad killed 12 people and injured 27. The bombing occurred just 17 kilometers from the Sri Lankan team’s hotel, leaving the players terrified.
Naqvi’s meeting changed the atmosphere
Before the second ODI, Naqvi spoke with players and officials from both Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. His aim was to boost the team’s morale and ensure that no effort would be spared for safety.
Naqvi thanked the Sri Lankan team for deciding to continue the series, despite the difficult circumstances.
“The purpose of the meeting was to boost team morale and reinforce the PCB’s dedication to player and staff safety,”
as reported. This meeting provided some relief to the players, who were initially apprehensive.
Sri Lanka had recently arrived in Pakistan to play a three-match ODI series. However, after the bombing, eight Sri Lankan players wanted to return home.
According to reports, “eight team members initially wanted to return home due to safety concerns.”
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board then took a firm stance and ordered everyone to complete the tour. There were lengthy discussions between the SLC and the PCB, during which it was decided that the series would proceed.
The PCB further tightened security at hotels, transportation, and practice grounds. Both boards are working together to ensure everyone’s safety.
Army Chief’s Role as Hero
It has now been revealed that Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir convinced Sri Lanka to continue the tour.
The PCB confirmed, “PCB confirms Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir convinced Sri Lanka to continue the tour.”
This revelation clearly demonstrates the pressure from above to save the series. Sri Lanka Cricket has also maintained its clear position that the tour will be completed, even if the players are upset.
Coordination between the two teams is tight. Security protocols have been strengthened, including at the team’s accommodation and travel accommodations.
The second ODI will be held tomorrow, Friday, and the third on Sunday. After that, Sri Lanka will play a T20I tri-series in Pakistan.
At present, the series is proceeding as scheduled. The PCB and SLC are in constant contact and sharing security updates. The players are now focused on the match without too much stress.
