Sri Lankan players express security concerns amid UK anti-immigrant riots

Sri Lankan cricketers currently in England for an upcoming three-Test series have raised concerns about their safety following recent anti-immigrant riots across the country. The series is scheduled to begin on August 21 in Manchester.

As reported by ESPNCricinfo, a few members of the Sri Lankan team and support staff have already arrived in the UK.

Out of the nine individuals present, which include seven players and two support staff, there are concerns about security due to the ongoing nationwide protests and riots against immigrants.

"Most of the issues seem not to be close to where we are, but everyone is still a little concerned," one of the players told ESPNcricinfo. "We can't really go out to dinner or do anything like that. Mostly we stay in the hotel. No one wants to run into trouble and get beaten up."

The remainder of the Sri Lankan squad is expected to arrive in the UK on August 11, coinciding with the implementation of the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) security plans for the series. In response to the team's concerns, the ECB has assured them of robust security arrangements during their stay.

The tour will feature three Test matches: the first at Manchester's Old Trafford on August 21, the second at Lord's on August 29, and the third at The Oval on September 6.

The riots, which have unfolded over the past week, stem from a mass stabbing incident in Southport that resulted in the deaths of three children. The unrest has been exacerbated by disinformation circulated on social media regarding the attacker’s identity.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has requested increased security measures for the players as they travel to and from training grounds, particularly those situated near London.

The ECB's commitment to ensuring the team's safety will be crucial in focusing on the forthcoming series amidst the current unrest.