Sri Lankan players are in a state of panic after the recent attack in Islamabad. They demanded an immediate halt to the ongoing ODI series and asked the Sri Lankan Cricket Board to bring the team home without delay. Their concern is direct and justified.
Players’ demands dismissed
The SLC has shown little willingness to act on the players’ concerns. Instead of agreeing to pause the series, the board appears reluctant to recognise the seriousness of the threat. This has created tension within the touring group.
SLC’s official response
In its statement, the SLC said it had engaged with players and assured them of safety measures in coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board and other authorities. The message aimed to calm the squad, yet it did not address their core demand.
Concerns about safety
The response appears unprofessional, especially when the blast occurred only 10 kilometres from Rawalpindi Stadium. Many believe there is an internal understanding between the PCB and SLC that forced this submissive approach. The situation has raised strong public suspicion.
Need for ICC involvement
The ICC must review the entire issue and carry out an independent assessment of security conditions in Pakistan. The safety of visiting teams cannot depend on vague assurances. Clear evaluation is essential before any international match is hosted.
Accountability from Pakistan
Pakistan needs to control its internal crisis or accept that it cannot ensure the safety of foreign players. Accountability is the need of the moment. Pakistan’s track record shows that such responsibility is rarely acknowledged, and this only deepens global concern.
