Newly appointed Sri Lankan skipper Thisara Perera was very pleased with the security in Lahore when he toured there with World XI team. He was the only player to express his willingness to travel Pakistan for the final game of their series against them.

“I was there in Lahore with the World XI last month and I was very impressed with the security that was given to the players. We were given security that is given to a Head of State. We were there for six days and were very impressed with the arrangements, said Perera.

This series will be Perera first test in captaincy’ helm, thus he feels proud to lead his nation. “Captaining my country is a huge honor for me. It’s a new challenge as well and I am looking forward to the opportunity,” he added.

Meanwhile, seven regular members of their T20I squad refused to travel to Pakistan. However, Sri Lanka Cricket made it clear earlier that only one squad will play the whole series. Thus, the selectors named a weak team for the three-match T20 International series.

The all-rounder said “There are some very good talents in this team. Hopefully, we will do something special in this series. We will challenge Pakistan. We have told everyone to play without fear of failure. It doesn’t matter if you fail after giving 100 percent. Everyone knows this is a good opportunity and if someone does well, that will be a huge moment in his career.”

Sri Lanka is going through a very bad year, where they have lost 21 ODIs out of 25, which includes three 5-0 whitewash, which is now a new record. “Every team goes through tough times. It is part and parcel of cricket. As captain, I have given the players confidence and told them not to be selfish but to give all that they’ve got for the team. The selectors also have echoed same sentiments,” Perera concluded.

Both teams will play first game today in Abu Dhabi before playing the second T20I tomorrow at the same venue. For the final game, both teams will travel to the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.