Sri Lanka’s cricket team has raised safety concerns as they embark on their Test tour of England, amidst recent far-right riots in the country. An initial group of seven Sri Lankan players, along with two support staff, arrived in England ahead of their three-Test series, which is set to commence at Old Trafford in just over a week. The rest of the squad is scheduled to join them on Sunday, with a four-day tour match against England Lions planned to begin on Wednesday.
Although the tour officially kicks off on Sunday, along with the full security measures provided by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), the players currently in England have requested increased security before then. Their concerns stem from the ongoing violence related to the riots, despite the training camp being located away from the most affected areas near London.
One of the players conveyed that while the immediate vicinity seemed safe, there was still a lingering unease among the group. The player mentioned that they have mostly confined themselves to their hotel, avoiding venturing out for dinners or other activities, in fear of encountering trouble.
The team has sought additional security from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) until the full squad arrives, butyet, they have not received a response. Team manager Mahinda Halangoda shared that he had raised concerns specifically about the security arrangements in Manchester, where the first Test will take place. He noted that the ECB had responded swiftly, providing detailed security plans.
The ECB remains confident in their security provisions but is maintaining open communication with SLC regarding any potential adjustments.
The concerns arose in the wake of far-right riots triggered by the recent tragic murder of three children in Southport. In response, anti-racist counter-protests have also begun.
Sri Lanka’s 18-man squad for the tour includes the uncapped right-arm seamer Milan Rathnayake and fast-bowling all-rounder Nisala Tharaka. The team will be led by Dhananjaya de Silva, with seasoned players such as Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, and Kusal Mendis providing experience. Sanath Jayasuriya will serve as head coach, with former England batsman Ian Bell brought in to assist in adapting to the local conditions, as Sri Lanka has not played Test cricket in England since 2016.
The England Lions squad to face Sri Lanka is expected to be announced today.