Sri Lanka players express reluctance in touring Pakistan

As many as 20 Sri Lanka players have reportedly signed a letter, requesting the board to shift the third T20I from Lahore to a neutral venue.

New Delhi: International cricket’s return to Pakistan got a major setback as majority of the centrally contracted Sri Lanka players expressed their reluctance in travelling to Lahore for the third T20I.

As many as 20 Sri Lanka players have reportedly signed a letter, requesting the board to shift the third T20I from Lahore to a neutral venue.

"A few players have expressed reservations, but about 20 players (out of 40 contracted by the board) have confirmed their willingness to play in Lahore," An SLX board official said.

Sri Lanka is slated to play a three-match T20I series against Pakistan after the ODI commences at UAE. The first two ODIs are clear off controversy, as they will take place in Dubai.

It all started way back in 2009 when the Sri Lankan team bus faced a deadly attack in which players and match officials were hurt – that was the last time Pakistan saw international cricket on its turf until the World XI tour last month.

The Sri Lankan players on the other hand have not directly denied traveling to Pakistan but going by the mood of the camp, it is unlikely.

The Sri Lanka Cricket Board however, is confident of convincing the players of going to Pakistan. The board will meet on Monday to discuss the issue.

In case the board fails to convince the payers, then it will be a huge setback for Pakistan as well as the relation between the two countries.

Sri Lanka naming a second string with experienced players like Thisara Perera, who toured Pakistan as part of the World XI side cannot be ruled out.