The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its concern over a security breach that occurred during the ICC Champions Trophy match between New Zealand and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.
A spectator invaded the pitch and attempted to hug New Zealand player Rachin Ravindra while holding a photograph of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) leader Hafiz Saad Hussain Rizvi.
The PCB swiftly addressed the issue, stating that ensuring the safety of players and officials remains their top priority. “The PCB has taken serious note of the security breach that occurred yesterday,” the board said in a statement. “We have engaged with local security agencies, who have committed to increasing security personnel and strengthening access control measures at all venues.”
The intruder was arrested and presented before a court, where he was permanently banned from entering any cricket venues in Pakistan. The PCB confirmed that it is working closely with security agencies and venue authorities to reinforce security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
Pitch invasions are a common occurrence in sports worldwide, with fans sometimes rushing onto the field to meet their favorite players. However, the PCB emphasized that such behavior was unacceptable, especially given the need to protect the safety and well-being of players.
Despite the disruption, the match resumed with Ravindra leading New Zealand to a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh, scoring a brilliant 112 runs. His performance secured New Zealand’s place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals, while Pakistan’s loss to both New Zealand and India in the tournament effectively knocked them out of the race for the semi-finals.
Ravindra expressed his appreciation for the support from the crowd, stating that the positive atmosphere in the stadium elevated the experience of playing in front of enthusiastic fans.
