Another despicable act by Pakistan

Pakistan continues its streak of getting embarrassed internationally. But this one has hurt the world first and then humiliated Pak. Our beloved game of cricket has come under fire, literally. Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked on their way to Gaddafi stadium in Lahore by 12 ‘UNIDENTIFIED’ men carrying AK-47s, rocket launchers and grenades. Half the team was injured along with assistant coach and 4th umpire for the ongoing match. Injured players are: Thilan Samaraweera (in hospital), Tharanga Paranavitana (in hospital), Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, Ajantha Mendis, Suranga Lakmal, Chaminda Vaas.

Though this came as a shock, I can’t stop wondering, what the hell were they doing in Pak in the first place. Apart from India (26/11 incident), there was a very good reason why other countries canceled their tours and that is security. That was the only reason why Champions Trophy was to be taken out of Pak. Sri Lankan cricket board should have taken a hint and should have focused on safety first. With the recent developments in Swat Valley, Pak was not exactly an ideal place to be in. I am tempted to put the blame on their board and their government (for allowing the tour). Lankan president said that the tour was meant to be a sign of goodwill. Now who is paying the price?

No doubt, this incident is going to force ICC to ban tours in Pak for a few years. BCCI has already speculated a 4 to 5 years ban. Other boards and governments have also strongly condemned the act and are demanding action. Thats the amusing part. All 12 attackers escaped unharmed and 5 security personnel were killed. There have been a few arrests but going by the history of investigation of terror attacks in Pak, we all know what the end result is going to be. The root cause, that is terrorism still wanders freely on the streets of Pakistan and has shown its ugly face once again in such a ghastly way.

With IPL approaching and 2011 world cup in sight, there are now questions being asked about security not only in Pakistan but in the entire Indian subcontinent. As far as World Cup goes, I believe Pakistan is now way out of question. The other subcontinental countries now face a monumental task of reestablishing the trust into cricket playing nations.