Sri Lanka Cricket Team to Complete Pakistan Tour Following Mohsin Naqvi’s Personal Security Assurance
Independent Report
Islamabad, November 12, 2025
Islamabad – In a demonstration of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to international cricket and the safety of visiting teams, the Sri Lankan cricket team has decided to continue its Pakistan tour, reversing its earlier request to cut the tour short and return home. The decision came after Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi personally assured the team of comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements throughout their stay.
Minister Naqvi held an in-depth meeting with the Sri Lankan High Commissioner and the team management, during which he outlined robust security protocols, ensuring that players could compete in a safe and secure environment. Speaking on the occasion, Naqvi stressed that the protection of foreign teams in Pakistan is a top priority for the government, and that every measure would be taken to provide maximum security and comfort to the visiting players.
The Sri Lankan team’s management expressed their appreciation for the personal efforts of Minister Naqvi, highlighting that the meeting instilled confidence among players and officials alike. Sources indicate that the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has instructed its players to complete the scheduled tour, with a stern reminder that any player leaving prematurely could face a two-year ban, reinforcing their commitment to the series.
The series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka includes three One-Day Internationals (ODIs), with the second match scheduled tomorrow in Rawalpindi. Following this, a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe is also scheduled, further emphasizing Pakistan’s return as a safe and attractive venue for international cricket.
Cricket enthusiasts across Pakistan have welcomed the news with pride, celebrating the efforts of Minister Naqvi and the government in ensuring the continuation of international cricket. Analysts highlight that this development not only strengthens Pakistan-Sri Lanka sporting relations but also sends a strong message globally about the country’s ability to host top-level sporting events safely.
In his statement, Minister Naqvi underlined Pakistan’s broader commitment to sports diplomacy, stating that the government is dedicated to creating an environment where players from all countries can compete without fear, and where Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure meets the highest international standards. He praised the Sri Lankan team for their professionalism and trust in Pakistan’s arrangements, calling it a remarkable example of mutual respect and collaboration in international sports.
The successful continuation of the tour is being viewed as a significant achievement for Pakistan, reflecting the government’s proactive approach in ensuring security, building confidence among foreign teams, and promoting the revival of international cricket in the country. The public’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with citizens expressing national pride in Pakistan’s hospitality, resilience, and commitment to sportsmanship.
As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming matches, the spotlight remains on Mohsin Naqvi’s personal intervention, which has been widely lauded as a decisive factor in convincing the Sri Lankan team to stay. The event also underscores the cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, reinforcing the spirit of friendship, trust, and sporting collaboration between the two nations.
With this renewed commitment, Pakistan continues to welcome international cricket with open arms, ensuring that safety, professionalism, and sportsmanship remain at the forefront, and proving that the nation is fully capable of hosting world-class sporting events.
