Federal Interior Minister and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed how Pakistan managed to persuade the Sri Lankan cricket team to continue their tour despite security concerns.
Naqvi said that Pakistan’s Field Marshal, Asim Munir, personally contacted Sri Lanka’s Defence Minister and Secretary, assuring them that the team’s safety was fully secured.
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“Our Field Marshal spoke directly to Sri Lanka’s authorities and convinced them,” he said.
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“We assured them that Pakistan Army, Rangers and local police are handling security. The Sri Lankan players are our state guests, and we are providing them full protocol and protection,” he added.
He further added that the PCB addressed all the players’ concerns, who were reportedly very worried about staying in Pakistan.
“We resolved all their fears,” Naqvi said.
The Sri Lankan President also spoke to the team personally, encouraging them to continue playing.
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“Thanks to their courage, both the board and players decided to stay in Pakistan and play the matches,” he added.
Naqvi expressed his gratitude to the Sri Lankan President, the board, and the players for their bravery.
“I thank them on behalf of the board, and the entire nation,” he said.
Regarding recent incidents in Wana and Islamabad, Naqvi noted that Afghan nationals were involved and said the government is monitoring the matter closely.
