Army Deployed in Pakistan for Sri Lankan Cricket Team's Safety

The Pakistani government has mobilized army and paramilitary units to ensure the safety of the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team. This decisive action follows a suicide bombing in Islamabad earlier this week that raised alarms regarding the security of the players currently engaged in an international cricket series.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi addressed parliament, underscoring the government’s commitment to the team's safety. He confirmed that security personnel have been specifically assigned to protect the Sri Lankan cricket squad, assuring that all measures are being implemented rigorously to allow the team to focus on their matches without fear.

The decision to enhance security came after a tragic suicide bombing near an Islamabad courthouse on Tuesday, resulting in 12 fatalities and injuring 27 others. The attack occurred in close proximity to the accommodations and grounds where the Sri Lankan squad stays and plays, with both their hotel and stadium situated under 10 kilometers from the explosion site. This incident has amplified concerns about the safety of the players, prompting discussions on the viability of continuing the tour.

Following the attack, Sri Lanka Cricket Board officials noted that many players expressed immediate concerns about their safety and contemplated returning home. The fear stemmed from the traumatic events of the 2009 Lahore attack where the Sri Lankan team was directly targeted. Historically, that incident had a profound impact on international cricket in Pakistan. Nevertheless, the board reassured the players that strong security would be provided, urging them to continue with their commitments in Pakistan.

In a statement, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif characterized the current climate as a “state of war,” attributing the violence to militants operating from Afghanistan and suggesting Indian support for these groups—claims both nations vigorously denied. Despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions, the priority remains on ensuring the safety of the Sri Lankan cricket players during their stay.

This recent bombing evokes memories of the 2009 Lahore attack and the subsequent decade-long hiatus of international cricket in Pakistan. Since then, the country has worked diligently to restore its reputation by enhancing security, providing police escorts, and improving response protocols for visiting teams. Yet, this latest incident raises fresh concerns regarding the nation’s capability to safely host international cricket events.

England successfully toured Pakistan for Test series in 2022 and 2024, in addition to a seven-match T20 series before clinching the T20 World Cup in 2022. Pakistan also hosted various fixtures of the Champions Trophy earlier this year, although India opted to play their matches in the UAE due to ongoing political friction. Ultimately, India won the tournament, with Pakistan exiting at the group stage.

Currently, the Sri Lankan cricket team is engaged in a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, adjacent to Islamabad, followed by a T20 series with Zimbabwe. Pakistan narrowly claimed victory in the opening ODI against Sri Lanka by just six runs on Tuesday. Despite this win, the overarching concerns regarding security continue to cast a shadow over the series.

To bolster the team’s safety and build international confidence, Pakistani authorities have taken significant measures, including army deployment. For the moment, the Sri Lankan squad remains in Pakistan, proceeding with their matches under heightened security measures.