Rawalpindi, Pakistan – A security scare has hit the Sri Lankan cricket team currently touring Pakistan, with several players requesting to return home amidst heightened security concerns. The unease follows a suicide bombing in Islamabad on Tuesday that resulted in multiple casualties.

According to sources within Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the team management informed the board that some members of the national squad expressed their desire to leave Pakistan, prompting immediate discussions between SLC and the players. The SLC moved swiftly to reassure the players, emphasizing that their safety was of utmost importance and that they were actively addressing the concerns in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and relevant authorities.

Despite the players' apprehension, SLC has instructed all players, support staff, and team management to continue with the tour as scheduled. The board has also clarified that any player who still chooses to return to Sri Lanka will be immediately replaced to ensure the ongoing series is not disrupted. Furthermore, SLC has stated that any player or staff member defying the directive to continue the tour will face a formal review upon its conclusion, potentially leading to disciplinary action.

Reports indicate that eight Sri Lankan cricketers are preparing to return home following the security concerns. This decision has cast doubt on the second ODI of the three-match series against Pakistan. Pakistan won the first ODI by six runs. The Sri Lankan team is also scheduled to participate in a triangular series with Pakistan and Zimbabwe after the current ODI series.

The Sri Lankan High Commissioner met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who provided assurances regarding security arrangements for the team's duration in Pakistan.

The situation evokes memories of the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team bus in Lahore, which led to a prolonged absence of international cricket in Pakistan. In that incident, gunmen attacked the team bus en route to Gaddafi Stadium, injuring several players and resulting in the death of Pakistani security personnel.

SLC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the tour continues without interruption, stating that replacements will be sent for any players who insist on returning home. The PCB has also acknowledged the concerns of the touring players. A PCB source indicated that players were given the option to stay and complete the tour or return home after the Sri Lankan High Commissioner's meeting with PCB officials and government representatives.

The decision by some Sri Lankan players to return home underscores the challenges Pakistan faces in reassuring international teams about security despite efforts to revive international cricket in the country.