Strong relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan made it possible

Friday, 14 November 2025 00:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

It has come to light through media reports that players of the Sri Lanka team have expressed a desire to cancel the current tour of Pakistan, which includes a three-nation series, due to a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad.

The Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board has assured the team that security measures will be enhanced.

Following is the full statement by Airport Gymkhana, Karachi President M. Salimullah Shaikh.

“There is no doubt that our relations with Sri Lanka are very strong, as the people of Pakistan greatly admire the Sri Lankan cricket team and both nations are passionate about the sport.

We hope that the Sri Lanka Cricket Board will intervene and resolve this issue as I know their commitment well. The PCB should ensure the best possible security for the Sri Lankan players as they deserve it.

“During a time when no teams were visiting Sri Lanka, our team the Airport Gymkhana Cricket Club led by Test cricketer Rashid Khan and consisting of 6-7 Tests and first-class players toured Sri Lanka in 1984. Our objective was not merely to win matches but to demonstrate to the world that Sri Lanka is a beautiful destination for cricket. This was our first tour, and it has continued regularly since then.

“I have received news that the efforts of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was successful in addressing the concerns of the Sri Lankan players. It has also been reported that the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has instructed their team to proceed with the tour, providing strict guidelines for security. This is great news for the people of Pakistan, and it was an expected outcome given our strong relations.

“We should not forget that during the time when no teams were willing to play in Pakistan due to terrorism, Sri Lanka was the first team to visit in 2009. Unfortunately, there was a terrorist attack in Lahore during that tour, but thankfully the team remained safe. It was Sri Lanka that agreed to come and play again afterwards, which proves the strength of our relations.

“I sincerely appreciate the efforts made by Naqvi to ensure the tour continues. A special thanks to the Government of Sri Lanka and their Cricket Board for their unwavering support. The people of Pakistan were deeply disappointed when the players initially considered refusing to continue the tour, but the involvement and guidance of the Sri Lankan Cricket Board have bolstered the spirit of cricket. The entire nation is grateful to Sri Lanka. Thank you, Sri Lanka.”