The 12-tonne missile, which was indigenously developed, is part of an Arsenal intended as a deterrent towards Pakistan and China, its nuclear-armed neighbours.

The Sri Lankan cricketers had been travelling in a well-armed convoy to the city’s Gaddafi stadium, to commence the third day of a five-day game against Pakistan’s national side.

China is a major supplier of military hardware to Pakistan and also a major investor in areas such as telecommunications, ports and infrastructure.