Security Measures Intensified: Pakistan's Army Protects Sri Lankan Cricket Team

Post by : Mara Rahim

In light of serious security concerns, Pakistan has deployed both army and paramilitary forces to safeguard the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team. This decision comes on the heels of a devastating suicide attack in Islamabad earlier this week, prompting fears about the team's safety while they engage in an international cricket series.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed parliament about the government's proactive measures, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the team’s security. He confirmed that military forces are on the ground specifically tasked with protecting the Sri Lankan players, reiterating the commitment to follow all necessary safety protocols.

The army’s deployment follows a suicide bombing outside a court in Islamabad that tragically claimed the lives of 12 individuals and injured 27 others. This incident occurred alarmingly close to the Sri Lankan team’s accommodations and playing venues, exacerbating concerns about their welfare and raising doubts about the continuation of their tour.

Following the attack, players expressed immediate anxiety and contemplated returning home. Reminded of the infamous 2009 Lahore attack targeting their team, players were understandably shaken. However, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board urged them to stay in Pakistan, reassured by the administration's commitment to providing what they termed “foolproof security.”

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif addressed ongoing security threats, framing the recent violence as putting Pakistan in a “state of war.” He attributed the attacks to militants in Afghanistan and implicated India in supporting them; both countries have dismissed these allegations. Amid existing political tensions, the priority remains the safety of the Sri Lankan players.

Reminiscent of the 2009 Lahore attack, this recent bombing has renewed worries among cricket officials and fans about Pakistan's capacity to host international cricket matches safely. After the 2009 incident, international cricket largely ceased in the country for a decade, but teams have gradually resumed visits thanks to extensive security improvements.

Notably, England recently toured Pakistan, participating in multiple Test series and a T20 series prior to their T20 World Cup triumph. However, India opted to play its matches in the UAE due to regional tensions, eventually winning the tournament after defeating New Zealand, while Pakistan faced early elimination.

Currently, the Sri Lankan cricket team is engaged in a three-match one-day series in Rawalpindi, adjacent to Islamabad. Following this series, they are set to compete in a T20 tri-series alongside Zimbabwe. In a tightly contested first match, Pakistan narrowly secured a six-run victory over Sri Lanka on Tuesday, although the prevailing security worries continue to cast a shadow over the matches.

Pakistan remains committed to ensuring safety through military presence, aiming for a smooth tour while rekindling international cricket confidence. As of now, the Sri Lankan team continues their tour in Pakistan, with heightened security firmly in place around them.