Juan J. Monroe 
Australian cricketers could benefit from more extensive security cover on their next tour of Sri Lanka after the federal government advised tourists to reconsider their need to travel to the island nation weeks before the tour. men’s national team.
Civil unrest, which culminated in the resignation of Sri Lanka’s prime minister this week and violent protests in the capital Colombo, forced the redesignation by Australian authorities.
Protests in Sri Lanka during the current episode of civil unrest.Credit:Bloomberg
The Australian squad are due to travel to Sri Lanka for three Twenty20 internationals, five ODIs and two Tests in June and July. An Australian Tour A is also to take place concurrently.
“We now advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Sri Lanka due to the security situation,” the travel advisory said. “Several violent incidents took place during large demonstrations. Avoid demonstrations and events that attract large groups. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates.
“A public emergency has been declared in Sri Lanka and an island-wide curfew imposed. Always carry relevant travel and identification documents with you. Public protests continue to take place across Sri Lanka. They can also cause disruption to traffic and public transport.
“You may experience planned and extended fuel supply interruptions and power outages. Import delays may impact your ability to access certain medicines and food items.
The change in travel advice brings Sri Lanka to the same level of risk of “reconsidering your need to travel” as that of Pakistan, where the Australian team recently filmed successfully for the first time since 1998.
Sources familiar with discussions between Cricket Australia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said the amended travel advice was as much about logistical issues and possible shortages as the protests themselves. CA is still planning for teams to travel on commercial flights to Colombo after two years of charter flights and strict biosecurity affected by COVID.
CA and the Australian Cricketers Association made separate pre-tour visits, by Stuart Bailey and Brendan Drew, respectively, to inspect tour preparations ahead of this week’s upset.
