Pakistan cricketers confined to hotel in Colombo

Pakistan men's cricket team is on the tour of Sri Lanka for the two-match Test series, however, the situation in the country is getting worst.

Thousands of protesters stormed President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's official residence in the capital of Sri Lanka. Demonstrators from all over the country marched to Colombo demanding his resignation after months of protests over the country's economic crisis mismanagement.

Meanwhile, Pakistan cricketers have been confined to the hotel while they were also not allowed to go to the food court of the adjoining shopping mall. The practice session was also canceled yesterday.

Protestors were also seen passing outside the team's hotel and slogans could be heard by the players too, however, they were not afraid of this. 

A member of the team management said that the players have been confined to the hotel. Earlier, they used to go to the food court of the adjoining shopping mall, but now they have been instructed to eat at the hotel. Soldiers are guarding the guest squad, prior notice is required before leaving the hotel.

He revealed the players themselves witnessed three km long lines of vehicles outside the petrol pumps; electricity is not available, however, 24 hours electricity is available in the hotel through generators.

"Pakistan team has also previously stayed in this hotel. Only two food outlets are left in the adjoining shopping mall as the rest are shut down due to ongoing situation. The locals have been very friendly as they smile at the Pakistani team and wave hands while they pass," the official said.

Asked if the players are scared of the situation, the official said, "We have heard and seen gun incidents, bomb blasts and what not in Pakistan, so here, no one is afraid of such protests. The team has been provided with the best security."

On the other hand, Sri Lanka has no restrictions on COVID-19 precautions. The players are also not wearing masks while only one test was taken on arrival. The squad was surprised over the positive result of Malang Ali, the masseur.