Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed its national team will complete the ongoing ODI series in Pakistan despite initial security concerns. The decision follows comprehensive safety assurances provided to players and team management.
Several Sri Lankan players reportedly expressed desire to return home on November 12 following the first ODI in Rawalpindi. The board quickly addressed these concerns through coordinated security measures with Pakistani authorities.
Sri Lanka Cricket implemented all necessary safety protocols in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board and local security agencies. The board formally instructed players and support staff to continue with the scheduled tour.
Team management clarified that any individual choosing to depart would be immediately replaced to ensure series continuity. This decisive approach maintained the tour’s schedule while respecting player concerns. Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar praised Sri Lanka’s commitment to continuing the series. “Thank you Sri Lanka Team for standing with cricket and defeating terrorism,” he posted on social media platform X.
🏏 Cricket Wins! Pakistan players express heartfelt gratitude to Sri Lanka’s team and board 🇵🇰🤝🇱🇰
Players urging fans to come out and keep supporting in the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium 🙌#PAKvSL #JeetKaScene pic.twitter.com/T3rLDNkVuc
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 13, 2025Ex-Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja also welcomed the decision, stating, “After a turbulent day, I am so pleased to know that the Sri Lanka tour is on!” He acknowledged the collective effort from both cricket boards to ensure cricket emerged as the ultimate winner.
Read: Pakistan Clinch Thrilling 6-Run Victory Over Sri Lanka in First ODI
Pakistan batsman Salman Ali Agha expressed appreciation for Sri Lanka’s solidarity during challenging circumstances. He encouraged local fans to fill stadiums for the remaining ODI matches to demonstrate support. ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi requested strong spectator turnout for the November 14 and 16 fixtures. Fast bowler Haris Rauf emphasized that Sri Lanka’s decision represented a victory for cricket itself beyond bilateral competition.
The second ODI originally scheduled for Thursday, November 13 has been rescheduled to Friday, November 14. The series finale will occur as planned on Sunday, November 16, maintaining the three-match series structure.
