🏏 Sri Lanka Tour Proceeds After Security Scare; Pakistan Cricketers Express Gratitude

The cricket series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka faced a moment of uncertainty but is now confirmed to proceed, a decision that has drawn widespread praise and gratitude from the Pakistani cricketing fraternity.

The touring Sri Lankan team was reportedly anxious about continuing the series in Pakistan following safety concerns, with some players allegedly requesting to return home on November 12, the day after the first One-Day International (ODI) in Rawalpindi.

In response, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) provided reassurances to its players, confirming that comprehensive safety measures were in place, coordinated closely with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities.

The PCB, determined to ensure the series continued without disruption, instructed players and support staff to remain on tour, clarifying that any player opting to leave would be immediately replaced.

🙏 Voices of Appreciation from Pakistan Cricket

Pakistani cricketers, both current and former, took to social media to thank SLC and the touring side for their commitment.

Shoaib Akhtar (Former Pacer) praised the decision, stating on X: “Thank you Sri Lanka Team for standing with cricket and defeating terrorism.”
Tanveer Ahmed (Former Fast Bowler) expressed profound gratitude: “A big thank you to Sri Lanka Cricket Board and the Sri Lankan team for standing by Pakistan when it mattered most. True friendship reveals itself in testing times.”
Ramiz Raja (Former Captain) shared his relief: “After a turbulent day, I am so pleased to know that the Sri Lanka tour is on! A collective effort from all of us will help address such manic behaviour and brutality. A big thank you to the Sri Lankan Board, the players, and our Cricket Board for their efforts to ensure that cricket emerges as the true winner!”

Current national team players also voiced their appreciation:

Shan Masood (Test Captain) thanked SLC for their understanding: “Thank you Sri Lanka Cricket for understanding and staying on for the tour. We as a nation have already suffered and lost a lot, and our Government, Security Forces, PCB, and fans have made significant sacrifices and efforts to host international cricket at home.”
Salman Ali Agha (Batsman) thanked the Sri Lankan board and players for their support, urging fans to attend the remaining ODIs.
Shaheen Shah Afridi (ODI Captain) called on fans to attend the upcoming fixtures on November 14 and 16 in large numbers.
Haris Rauf emphasised that the Sri Lankan team’s choice was a victory for cricket itself.

📅 Rescheduled Fixtures

Due to the developments, the schedule has been adjusted:

The second ODI, originally set for Thursday, November 13, has been rescheduled for Friday, November 14.
The final match will be held on Sunday, November 16.

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Daily Olympic is Pakistan’s first sports daily, simultaneously publishing from Narowal and Lahore. We are committed to providing our readers with the latest and most comprehensive sports coverage, from local to international events.