One of the biggest security operations ever seen at an English cricket ground has been arranged for Friday’s second one-day international between England and Pakistan at The Oval.
Surrey officials are determined to avoid any repeat of the mass pitch invasion by Pakistan fans at the end of the opening match of the series at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
The increased security will involve stewards being placed around the perimeter of the ground well before the finish rather than, as is customary, just a few minutes before the end.
”We’ll be forced to have a fairly obtrusive presence of stewards who will form a complete ring round the perimeter for at least 15 minutes before the end of the game,” explained Surrey chief executive Paul Sheldon.
”In that way a very clear message is sent to the crowd at an early stage.
”Since the regulations about pitch invasions changed, we have succeeded in stopping any spectator coming on to the field by using this policy — we’re very resolute and determined to ensure maximum safety for the players, officials and spectators.”
Lancashire meanwhile has ordered an inquiry into Tuesday’s pitch invasion following criticism that they had failed to provide adequate security in the face of a known threat.
Two years ago British-based Pakistan supporters staged pitch invasions at Edgbaston, Headingley and Trent Bridge. Tuesday night’s scenes at Old Trafford, which saw stewards utterly overwhelmed by jubilant Pakistan supporters, had led to fears of an official reprimand and longer term concerns over Old Trafford’s status as an international ground.
But Lancashire chief executive Jim Cumbes was confident English cricket chiefs would treat the county sympathetically.
”I don’t think the other night will affect our status as an international venue,” Cumbes said on Thursday.
”We’ve worked hard on the way we organise our matches and believe we have made progress in that.”
The series concludes at Lord’s on Friday. – Sapa-AFP