England cricketers warned over Sri Lanka upheaval
Colombo, October 30
England’s cricket stars have been told to stay away from political demonstrations while touring Sri Lanka, which is in the grip of a constitutional power struggle. “We are exercising vigilance and avoiding all demonstrations or large political gatherings,” said England spokesman Danny Reuben. “We are aware of a political demonstration today, but for us it is all about preparations for the first Test.” Reuben said a four-day practice match in Colombo would go ahead as planned, despite the troubles in the capital.
England take on Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle on November 6. England are due to stay in Sri Lanka until November 27, when the third Test ends. On Sunday, bodyguards for Petroleum Minister Arjuna Ranatunga, Sri Lanka’s captain when they won the 1996 World Cup, opened fire at a crowd. Ranatunga was arrested Monday on an allegation of ordering the shooting, but was released on bail. —AFP
