Thaindian News

Lahore, March 3 (IANS) Pakistan’s cricket community Wednesday paid tribute to the victims of last year’s terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team here.
On the first anniversary of the deadly incident Tuesday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced it would bear the expenses for the education of the children of the policemen who lost their lives while saving the Sri Lankan cricketers.

“We pause to remember the victims, to grieve with the families and friends of those who died, and to honour the heroes of that day who sacrificed their lives to save others. Even though a year has passed, it has not erased the shock, horror and pain that we all felt on that day, ” Ijaz Butt, the PCB chairman, said in a statement.

“We all remember where we were when we heard the news, and the disbelief that we felt at first, and then the sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the victims. PCB will stand shoulder to shoulder with the families of victims to help them recover from the devastating loss that they have suffered.”

A memorial ceremony was held at the site of the attack where a wreath was laid by PCB in honour of the victims.

Seven Sri Lankan players and their assistant coach were injured and eight Pakistanis, mostly policemen, were killed when unidentified assailants opened fire and hurled grenades at the Sri Lankan team’s bus on the way to Gadaffi Stadium here March 3, 2009.

The attack came as a huge blow for Pakistan cricket with foreign teams refusing to tour the country. Pakistan has not hosted any international cricket since that attack and chances are dim that it will be staging any events in the near future.

Earlier in the morning, the law minister of Punjab province, Rana Sanaullah, laid wreaths at the scene of the attack at Liberty Square.

“We are here to remember the sacrifices given by our brave policemen. The whole nation is proud of them,” said Sanaullah.

“Terrorists want to destroy peace in Pakistan.”