New Zealand Cricket will increase on-ground security measures for the upcoming One Day International matches against India, following a bottle-throwing incident at the Twenty20 International in Wellington yesterday [27 February].
Play was halted briefly towards the end of the New Zealand innings after a plastic bottle was thrown from the crowd on to the ground close to an Indian fielder. Concerns over the incident were expressed by the Indian team and by match referee Ranjan Madugalle.
NZC Chief Executive Justin Vaughan said steps were already under way to provide increased security for the five-match ODI series, which begins at McLean Park, Napier, on Tuesday [3 March].
Measures will include an increase in the numbers of security staff, higher security visibility in potential problem areas, and closer monitoring and awareness of the crowd.
Security staff would be instructed to take extra precautions to shield boundary fielders, and to take prompt action against offenders. Additional measures will be considered.
“This type of incident is unfortunate – especially in such an exciting and close game as we saw last night,” said Vaughan. “Fortunately it does not occur often.
“New Zealand Cricket is fully committed to providing a high level of security, and I have given my assurance to the Indian team that increased security will be in place for the upcoming series.”
