ICC president David Morgan said leading nations would be reluctant to tour Pakistan after the terrorist attacks in Lahore.

Morgan is hopeful Pakistan will be declared a fit country to stage Tests and one-day internationals before long, but stressed the safety of touring teams must be the priority.

Sri Lanka have abandoned their tour of the country, with today's attack coming ahead of the scheduled third day of the second Test.

Thilan Samaraweera and Tharanga Paranavitana were hospitalised after gunmen struck as the team bus made its way to the Gaddafi Stadium.

Captain Mahela Jayawardene, vice-captain Kumar Sangakkara, Ajantha Mendis, Suranka Lakmal and Chaminda Vaas also sustained lesser injuries as well as assistant coach Paul Farbrace, while at least five policemen were killed.

"On many occasions we were told cricket would not be targeted in Pakistan," Morgan said.

"This morning's events prove that incorrect. I believe cricket must go on.

"I think it was important England returned to India (in December) after the Mumbai bombings.

"Cricket needs safest possible environment"

"But we have to provide the safest possible environment for cricket to be played.

"I believe the situation as it is currently stands in Pakistan is such that there will be reluctance for cricketers to wish to return there.

"But the current situation need not perpetuate way into the future."

Speaking at a Lord's press conference, Morgan said: "Today is an extremely sad day for cricket, for cricketers and people in general. A sad day for mankind.

"The events this morning in Pakistan can only be described as shocking.

"We send sympathies to relatives of those who lost their lives."

Lorgat confirmed the match officials, other than Raza, had been flown out of Sri Lanka and were due to arrive in Abu Dhabi.