Post by : Maya Rahman

In response to a tragic suicide bombing in Islamabad, Pakistan has mobilized its army and paramilitary units to ensure the safety of the Sri Lankan cricket team. This significant security measure was initiated after the attack struck earlier this week, leading to heightened fears regarding the team's security as they engage in an international cricket series in the country.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi addressed the parliament, emphasizing the government’s serious approach to the escalating situation. He confirmed the deployment of military and paramilitary forces specifically for the protection of the cricket team. Minister Naqvi assured that all necessary safety protocols are being adhered to diligently, so the players can focus on their games without anxiety.

The security decision was made following a suicide blast near an Islamabad court on Tuesday, which left 12 individuals dead and injured another 27. Notably, the attack's proximity to the hotels and playing venues of the Sri Lankan team—within a 10-kilometer radius—intensified security worries, prompting discussions on the viability of the ongoing tour.

In the wake of the explosion, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board reported rising concerns among team members, with several players expressing a desire to return home due to fears tied to a past attack on the team in Lahore in 2009. The traumatic memory from that attack, which drastically affected cricket in Pakistan for nearly a decade, loomed heavily. However, the board advised players to remain and continue with the series, citing Pakistan's assurance of providing what they termed “foolproof security.”

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif addressed the attack and the broader security context, stating that ongoing violence had placed the country in a “state of war.” He attributed the bombings to militants in Afghanistan and accused India of backing them, claims that were strongly refuted by both nations. Amidst geopolitical strife, the priority remains the safety of the Sri Lankan players.

The bombing has rekindled memories of the 2009 Lahore incident, which halted international cricket in Pakistan for several years. In recent times, cricket teams started to return as Pakistan made significant efforts to enhance stadium security, team escorts, and emergency response protocols. Nevertheless, this recent attack raises fresh doubts about the nation’s ability to host international cricket securely.

England has visited Pakistan twice for Test matches in the past two years and participated in a T20 series prior to claiming the T20 World Cup title in 2022. Earlier this year, Pakistan also managed host a majority of the Champions Trophy matches. However, India chose to play its matches in the UAE amidst ongoing political tensions, ultimately winning the tournament.

The Sri Lankan cricket team is currently involved in a three-match one-day series in Rawalpindi, just outside Islamabad, before moving on to a T20 tri-series with Zimbabwe. Pakistan managed a narrow victory in the first ODI, winning by just six runs, yet security fears continue to overshadow the games.

Pakistan is taking decisive actions to ensure security, aiming for the uninterrupted continuation of the tour while seeking to restore international confidence. Currently, the Sri Lankan cricket team remains in Pakistan, with matches proceeding under stringent security measures.

#Sports News #Cricket News