SA pull out of Lanka ODI series

ICC gave a go-ahead to South African side to head home after its assessment that security situation was not upto the mark.

South Africa on Wednesday pulled out of the Sri Lanka tri-series, leaving India and Sri Lanka to contest a bilateral series.

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According to reports received, the Proteas' decided to return home citing security concerns after a powerful bomb blast shook central Colombo, just 2 km from the team's hotel.

"South Africa have told us they want to pull out. It is unfortunate but true," Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) media manager Samantha Algama told.

The team is still waiting for an official go-ahead from ICC which is presently analysing the situation.

A South African source said earlier: "The players are in no mood to play the series. We are just waiting for the green signal to fly home."

India decided not to cancel their tour following increased security and positive indications from New Delhi's diplomatic mission.

It is speculated that India and the hosts Lanka will play 5 ODIs, though the figure is yet to be confirmed.

(with AFP inputs)