KARACHI – Sri Lanka Cricket Honorary Secretary Mohan De Silva has saidthat Pakistan never left Sri Lanka when Islanders were in need and now ‘itis time to payback’.
The Sri Lankan official made these comments while talking to BusinessRecorder during the ongoing series between the two Asian giants at theKarachi National Stadium on Wednesday.
“Pakistan provided assistance to our country not only in cricket but inmany other ways when we needed its cooperation,” said De Silva. “Thereforewe have an obligation and responsibility to support Pakistan.”The secretary recalled a few occasions when Pakistan and other Asiancountries helped Sri Lanka on getting the Test status and also supportedthe country when it was struggling with law and order situation back in the90s.
“Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was very supportive when we were trying toget Test status. Pakistan wholeheartedly supported us along with India,” DeSilva said. “During the 1996 World Cup when some teams decided not to visitSri Lanka, Pakistan and India once again formed a joint team and played inthe country to demonstrate how safe our country is.”
He added, “Similarly, at this time when we had some disturbance, Pakistansent their Under-19 team without any hesitation. Therefore, we felt that itwas our responsibility and obligation, and commitment with (InternationalCricket Council where we enjoy corresponding programmes.”
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The Sri Lankan delegate was also pleased with the security arrangementsthat were provided to their players and as well as for the officials. “Weare happy for the kind of security that we received. It was promised andassured to us.”
“They have done a splendid job and we have nothing to worry about thesecurity situation. I must say, the Sri Lankan minister and the governmentextended support and send the team to Pakistan,” he maintained.
De Silva also thanked the spectators for their love and support for bothteams.
