Sri Lanka condemns attack on its cricketers

Colombo: Sri Lanka on Tuesday described as "appalling" the terror attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Pakistan's Lahore city.

"It is appalling that anybody should have targeted a sporting team in such a brutal manner. The attitude of targeting sportsmen must change," Sri Lankan foreign secretary P Kohona said on Tuesday.

He added that the players would be back on the first available commercial flight.

"My understanding is that the injuries are not serious, they are superficial. The cricketers are valuable assets of the country, they are the pride and joy of the country."

At least six Sri Lankan cricketers were wounded in Pakistan's Lahore city on Tuesday when gunmen attacked the team bus travelling to the Gaddafi Stadium for the ongoing second and final Test.

"I have spoken to Pakistani authorities and they have assured us all help. The team will fly back on the first available flight. My understanding is that the injured players are stable, that is what I got to know from our High Commission in Pakistan," he said.

The Sri Lankan team filled in for a one-day and Test series after India pulled out following the Mumbai terror attack in November last year.