Sri Lankan media has reported that national team captain Charith Asalanka allegedly influenced teammates to withdraw from the ongoing Pakistan tour following the recent blast in Islamabad, citing heightened security concerns.
According to these reports, Asalanka advised players to reconsider continuing the series, which prompted the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board to recall him. Sources suggest that disciplinary action against the captain is currently under review.
In his place, Dasun Shanaka has been appointed captain for the Tri-Nation T20I series being played in Pakistan.
Security Concerns Heightened
The developments come amid intensified discussions around player safety during the tour. Earlier this month, concerns were raised that several Sri Lankan cricketers wanted to end the series prematurely.
In response, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the Sri Lankan players at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium to reassure them of comprehensive security arrangements.
PCB Chairman’s Assurance
Naqvi inspected security deployments around the stadium and met officers on duty, urging law enforcement personnel to remain committed and vigilant.
He also met the Sri Lankan squad during their practice session and thanked them for continuing the tour despite the incident.
“Your security is our responsibility. Your continued visit to Pakistan is a victory for peace and a defeat for terrorism,” Naqvi told the players.
Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner Fred Sri Weeratne and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry were also present during the inspection and discussions.
