Sri Lanka Expresses Security Concerns Ahead of England Tour

The first Test match between England and Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on August 21 in Manchester. The Sri Lankan team is set to depart for England this Sunday. However, they are facing security concerns ahead of the Test series due to the ongoing anti-immigrant riots in England. In response to the situation, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reassured Sri Lanka regarding their security arrangements.

Seven Sri Lankan players and two support staff members have already arrived in England to participate in the three-match Test series. One of the Sri Lankan cricketers currently in England shared his concerns with Cricinfo:

"Most of the issues don't seem to be close to where we are, but everyone is still a bit anxious. We can’t go out for dinner or do anything like that. Most of us are staying in the hotel. Nobody wants to get into trouble."

The cricketer also mentioned that they have requested their cricket board to take steps to ensure their security, but have yet to receive a response.

Sri Lanka's team manager, Mahinda Halangoda, told ESPN Cricinfo that the ECB has assured them of full security once the main squad arrives. He stated:

"I have communicated our concerns to them. The ECB responded quickly and sent us their security plan. They will have a security liaison officer with us."

The three-match Test series between England and Sri Lanka will begin on August 21 in Manchester, followed by the second match at Lord's on August 29 and the final match at The Oval on September 6. The series is part of the Test Championship.