While the entire Bangladesh is under scanner dark clouds over this year’s Women’s T20 World still remains, a new development has been coming from England. The country has seen anti-immigrant riots that have erupted in various cities. Amidst this, the Sri Lankan team has overtly raised concerned, who are scheduled to have a three-match Test series against the Three Lions, starting from late August.
Sri Lankan players to get beaten up?
An anonymous Sri Lankan player has spoken to ESPNcricinfo, stating the concerns regarding the ongoing violence in the country. “Most of the issues seem not to be close to where we are but everyone is still a little concerned. We can’t really go out to dinner or do anything like that. Mostly we stay in the hotel. No one wants to run into trouble and get beaten up.”
Sri Lanka, who recently named their squad for the Tests against England, have asked for security in England before their main team arrives in Europe. The majority of the players recently featured in a historic ODI series win (2-0) against India.
Sri Lanka to arrive in England on Sunday
The Sri Lankan cricket team is set to arrive in England this Sunday for a highly anticipated three-match Test series, but the tour will be taking place against a backdrop of heightened security concerns. According to Sri Lanka team manager Mahinda Halangoda, the team has raised these security issues with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). “I raised the issue with them, but the ECB responded very quickly and sent us their comprehensive security arrangements,” Halangoda said. “We’ll be having a security liaison on the tour from them as well.”
The concerns stem from recent news reports out of Manchester, where the first Test is scheduled to be played from August 21. Over the last few days, the UK has seen a mix of far-right protests as well as large counter-protests aimed at protecting immigrant-owned businesses and other locations. While some of the far-right protests have turned violent, the UK government has assured sporting bodies that the country remains safe for sports events.
The UK police have also stated that they will crack down on and prevent any violence during the Sri Lanka tour. “The UK police has stated unequivocally that it will crack down on and prevent violence,” Halangoda noted.
After the first Test in Manchester, the Sri Lankan team will head to Lord’s for the second match from August 29, before concluding the tour at The Oval on September 6. Despite the security concerns, the ECB appears to have put comprehensive plans in place to ensure the safety of the touring Sri Lankan side.
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