Twitter in readiness before Sri Lanka's ODI against Pakistan in Karachi

Over the last few days, there have been a lot of talks over Sri Lanka’s tour of Pakistan. Back in 2009, the Lankan team bus was attacked outside the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore after which international cricket came to a halt in Pakistan. In 2015, Zimbabwe toured the nation for a limited-overs series. Gradually, cricket has been making its way into the war-stricken Asian country.

Back in October 2017, the Lankans played a solitary T20I in Lahore, but a number of the major players backed out citing security concerns. Thereafter, the World XI and the West Indies played T20I series in the country. A few weeks ago, it was learned that a security delegation gave positive feedback to the SLC following which the upcoming fixtures in Pakistan were finalized.

The itinerary consists of three ODIs and as many T20Is. The fixtures start with the 50-overs contest, starting on Friday, September 27 at the National Stadium in Karachi. It will be the first time after 2009 that Karachi will be hosting an ODI. International cricket has already returned to Karachi though after the Caribbean series last year in April. The T20I series will take place in Lahore.

Sri Lanka all set to embark on their Pakistan journey

The Lankans will be led by Lahiru Thirimanne in the absence of Dimuth Karunaratne, one of the players, who refrained from going to Pakistan. Other big names, who didn’t travel to the nation was Lasith Malinga, the T20I skipper, Angelo Mathews, Kusal Perera and Akila Dananjaya. Kusal Mendis was unavailable for selection due to an injury sustained in the New Zealand T20Is.

A couple of days ago, the Lankan players landed in Pakistan and they were being welcomed whole-heartedly. Misbah-ul-Haq, the head coach of Pakistan team, said that security has been tightened and the local people shouldn’t be deprived off their right of watching international cricket.

Dasun Shanaka, the T20I skipper, also sounded positive about the security arrangements. In the meantime, the fans are excited about the match. Though, the toss has been delayed due to rain, the supporters are waiting in anticipation for some riveting action on the cricket pitch.

Here’s how Twitter is ready for the Karachi ODI