Colombo — Sri Lanka has ramped up security arrangements for next month’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted with India, placing particular emphasis on protecting players and ensuring safety during the keenly anticipated India-Pakistan clash. Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage confirmed late Wednesday that the government is giving “highest priority” to a trouble-free tournament, with elite armed commando units—typically reserved for visiting heads of state—assigned to guard all participating teams from airport arrival to departure.
Key Highlights
- The India-Pakistan match falls on February 15 in Colombo, part of Group A action in the biennial ICC event running February 7 to March 8.
- Elite commandos will provide round-the-clock armed protection for every team throughout their stay.
Sri Lanka’s hosting follows the ICC’s decision to shift India-Pakistan fixtures to neutral ground in Colombo, avoiding cross-border travel amid longstanding regional tensions. - Bangladesh withdrew from the tournament over security concerns in India, leading to Scotland’s inclusion as replacement; Pakistan has hinted at possible boycott in solidarity.
Special Focus on India-Pakistan Match
Sri Lanka is deploying elite commando units to safeguard teams at the upcoming T20 World Cup, with special focus on the high-profile India-Pakistan match.
Cricket has long served as a platform where political sensitivities between India and Pakistan surface, especially after the two nuclear-armed neighbors saw a brief but intense conflict last year. Officials stressed that Colombo is paying “special attention” to this fixture. An unnamed security source told AFP that protection will be comprehensive: “From the time they step out of the airport till they return to their aircraft, they will be protected by armed guards.”
The India-Pakistan Group A encounter is scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
Neutral Stance Amid Regional Row
Sri Lanka has deliberately stayed out of the India-Bangladesh dispute over venue security. Cricket Secretary Bandula Dissanayake emphasized neutrality, saying, “In these disputes among India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, we are remaining neutral—all of these are friendly nations.” He added that Colombo remains open to hosting future events for any of the involved countries if requested.
Sri Lanka Boosts T20 World Cup Security With Eye On India-Pakistan Clash https://t.co/kRA0mqcqRf pic.twitter.com/zMe9tWvec8
— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) January 29, 2026
Enhanced measures aim to ensure smooth conduct of the 20 matches hosted by Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
What’s Next
The tournament kicks off soon, with Sri Lanka’s own warm-up match against England set for Friday at the unaffected Pallekele Stadium in Kandy. New floodlights at the Singhalese Sports Club in Colombo reflect ongoing venue upgrades. Security arrangements are expected to remain tight through March 8, ensuring the focus stays on the game rather than external tensions.
This proactive approach underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to delivering a safe, successful World Cup—while quietly reinforcing its role as a reliable host in regional cricket.
