Several Sri Lankan cricketers want to leave Pakistan after a suicide bombing in Islamabad raised security concerns. The blast outside a court on Tuesday killed 12 people and injured 27.

At least eight players have asked to return home, reports said. The team is playing a three-match ODI series in Pakistan, followed by a T20I tri-series starting on November 17.

However, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has warned players against leaving. It said the team must complete the tour as planned.

SLC Warns Players Against Leaving

In a statement on Wednesday, SLC said it has “instructed all players, support staff, and team management to continue with the tour as scheduled.” It assured them that “all such concerns are being duly addressed in close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of every member of the touring party.”

The board added that if any player or staff member returns home, replacements will be sent to complete the series. It also warned that disciplinary action would follow for those who disobey.

SLC said, “If any player, players, or member of the support staff return despite SLC’s directives, a formal review will be conducted to assess their actions, and an appropriate decision will be made upon the conclusion of the review.”

Pakistan Boosts Security

After the bombing, Pakistan’s authorities tightened security for the Sri Lankan team. The PCB is working closely with local agencies to protect the players and ensure the matches continue safely.

Players Recall 2009 Lahore Attack

Many Sri Lankan players are still haunted by memories of the 2009 Lahore attack, when terrorists targeted the team bus near the Gaddafi Stadium. Six players were injured, and international cricket stopped in Pakistan for almost ten years.

The recent bombing revived that fear, making several players reluctant to play further despite new security measures.

Series Situation

Pakistan won the first ODI by six runs on November 11, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. The second match is scheduled for November 14 (Friday), though uncertainty remains over player participation after the Islamabad attack.