The stakes have never been higher. As the cricketing world holds its breath for the most explosive rivalry in sports, the India vs Pakistan fixture, Sri Lanka is transforming into a fortress. With memories of last year’s four-day border conflict still fresh between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan, authorities are leaving nothing to chance for their high-voltage Group A clash in the upcoming T20 World Cup in Colombo on February 15.
Also Read: Learning from the best: Shreyas Iyer in deep batting chat with Daryl Mitchell
To ensure safety amidst this fierce India vs Pakistan geopolitical tension, Sri Lanka is rolling out security protocols usually reserved for heads of state. Elite commando units will now shadow every move of the visiting teams. One official bluntly described the tight cordon: "From the time they step out of the airport till they return to their aircraft, they will be protected by armed guards."
The island nation, co-hosting the T20 World Cup, understands the gravity of theIndia vs Pakistan situation. Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage confirmed they have given the "highest priority" to the event’s smooth conduct and are "paying special attention to the India-Pakistan matches".
While the pitch battles promise to be intense, the diplomatic tightrope is equally precarious. Following Pakistan's refusal to play in India and Bangladesh's dramatic withdrawal, Sri Lanka remains a neutral sanctuary. Cricket Secretary Bandula Dissanayake emphasised their delicate position, "In these disputes among India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, we are remaining neutral; all of these are friendly nations."
Come February, all eyes will be on Colombo, not just for the cricket, but for the unprecedented ironclad security ring surrounding it.
