T20 World Cup: New York raises security for India-Pakistan clash

Security cover will be intensified at the Eisenhower Park Stadium in New York following reports and speculation of threats to the high-profile India vs Pakistan match on 9 June during the T20 World Cup. A statement by the governor’s office said they are monitoring the situation but said “there is no credible public safety threat at this time.”

Eisenhower Park Stadium
, located about 25 miles east of Manhattan in New York, will host eight matches from 3 June to 12 June including the marquee India-Pakistan contest.

Kathy Hochul, the governor of the state of New York, indicated that her administration has been working with law enforcement agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of these games.

“I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes,” she said. “Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience.”

ICC, meanwhile, assured “robust” security throughout the T20 World Cup and had no evidence to suggest there was a threat to the venue in New York. “The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place. We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event,” said an ICC spokesperson, as per ESPNCricinfo.

Earlier in the month, the ICC and Cricket West Indies, who are co-hosts, presented reassurance that they are taking measures to ensure safety of the fans and the players.

India play four of their matches in New York – the opener against Ireland on 5 June, then the much-anticipated clash with Pakistan, followed by meetings with USA (12). Before the group games, India are also scheduled to play a warm-up game against Bangladesh on 1 June.

Indian cricket team arrived in the USA earlier this week and have begun training for the competition. Star batter Virat Kohli is yet to link up with the squad, allowed some extra time off after seeing Royal Challengers Bengaluru reach the IPL playoffs.