Islamabad, November 15, 2025: Pakistan men’s ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi hosted the visiting Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe teams for a dinner in the federal capital on Saturday, bringing players together ahead of a busy international schedule.
The informal gathering took place at the rooftop of a high-end Islamabad restaurant, where the touring sides were treated to a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes. Players from both teams reportedly appreciated the hospitality and the diverse menu.
Members of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I squads also attended the event, sharing light moments with their Sri Lankan and Zimbabwean counterparts in a relaxed setting.
The interaction came at a sensitive moment for the ongoing Pakistan–Sri Lanka ODI series, which faced temporary uncertainty after several Sri Lankan players expressed reluctance to continue the tour due to security concerns.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met the Sri Lankan players to address their reservations. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) later issued an official statement confirming that comprehensive security arrangements were being put in place in coordination with the PCB and relevant authorities.
“SLC was informed by the team management that several members of the national team touring Pakistan have requested to return home, citing safety concerns,” the board said, adding that it had assured players their welfare remained the top priority.
The SLC also stated that any player opting to withdraw from the tour would be replaced to ensure matches proceed as scheduled, with individual decisions to be reviewed separately.
Pakistan currently lead the three-match ODI series 2–0, with the final match set for Sunday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
After the ODI series concludes, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe will compete in a T20I tri-series from November 18 to 29, with fixtures planned in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
