The Sri Lankan cricket team reached Karachi for the series of three ODI and three T20 matches against Pakistan.
On arrival in Karachi, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Director International Zakir Khan and other PCB officials welcomed the team.
The Sri Lankan cricket team arrived in Karachi by a foreign airline flight, the officials of the Sri Lankan Cricket Board have also arrived in Karachi with the players.
The players were taken directly from the plane to the state lounge where the players were treated to tea and biscuits.
After that, the team left the airport under tight security to a local hotel in Karachi where the visiting team was warmly welcomed.
The Sri Lankan cricket team will first play three ODI matches in Karachi in which the Alex Reed team will be led by Leharu Thirimane, after which Dawson Shanaka will lead the Alex Reed team in three T20 matches in Lahore.
The Sri Lankan team will practice at the National Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, while the teams will have a practice session on Thursday, after which the first one-day match will be played in Karachi on Friday.
Earlier, while leaving Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan team captain Thirimane said that his team is determined to play good cricket in Pakistan. is
It should be noted that the Pakistan Cricket Board has given the Sri Lankan cricket team the same security protocol as the heads of state.
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What measures are being taken by the PCB to enhance the safety of international teams touring Pakistan?
**Interview with Zakir Khan, Director International, Pakistan Cricket Board**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Zakir. The Sri Lankan cricket team has just arrived in Karachi for their upcoming series. Can you share a bit about the welcoming protocol the PCB has in place for them?
**Zakir Khan:** Absolutely, it’s our pleasure to host the Sri Lankan team. Upon their arrival, we ensured that they were greeted warmly at the airport with traditional hospitality. They were treated to tea and biscuits before leaving under tight security arrangements, similar to what we provide for heads of state. It’s crucial for us to make them feel safe and welcome.
**Interviewer:** That’s great to hear! The series includes both ODI and T20 matches. How are you ensuring the players’ safety during their stay in Karachi?
**Zakir Khan:** We have deployed a comprehensive security plan which encompasses both their travel and accommodation. Local law enforcement is in place to ensure that the players can focus on their game without any concerns. We take their safety very seriously as this reinforces international cricket’s return to Pakistan.
**Interviewer:** Captain Thirimane mentioned the team’s determination to play good cricket in Pakistan. How important is it for international teams like Sri Lanka to tour Pakistan, especially after past security challenges?
**Zakir Khan:** It’s hugely significant. Having teams like Sri Lanka come to Pakistan signals a rejuvenation of international cricket here. The more teams come and play, the more confidence they build in our ability to host safely and smoothly. It’s a step-by-step process, but we’re committed to showing the world that Pakistan is a safe venue for cricket.
**Interviewer:** As cricket fans, should we be preparing for a fierce competition? Both teams are strong, and it could spark a debate about the future of cricket in regions considered less secure. What are your thoughts on this?
**Zakir Khan:** That’s a great point! The upcoming matches promise to be thrilling and competitive. Such events highlight the resilience of cricket as a sport and its power to bring nations together despite challenges. It does raise questions about how safety perceptions influence the sport’s accessibility in different regions, and I believe this series could pave the way for more international tours in the future. It’s important for the cricketing community to discuss how we can further integrate safety measures without compromising the spirit of the game.
**Interviewer:** Interesting perspectives, Zakir. Thank you for your insights!
**Zakir Khan:** Thank you for having me! I hope fans enjoy the upcoming matches and continue to support cricket in Pakistan.
