Champions Trophy: BCCI raises security concerns post Manchester terror attack

647_011617035153
India will reach England on Thursday. Image Source: twitter

Internet Desk: The BCCI has raised their concerns over Indian cricket team’s security in England during the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy after a terrorist attack in Manchester with the ICC, said boards acting secretary Amitabh Chaudhry on Tuesday.

“When I woke up, the first thing which I learnt was about these attacks. As soon as I was in the BCCI office we sent out a message raising our concerns about security of the Indian team’s travel, accommodation and the playing (arena). Thankfully ICC has responded to it within two hours. They have been sensitised about our concern,” Chaudhry told reporters here.

“Obviously these attacks are in nature of terrorist attack. This is something which can affect any individual on the planet. The security concerns are that much more intense,” said Chaudhry, adding that the team’s schedule “remains unchanged so far.”

“These concerns are so overwhelming that the team does not have to come and show its concern. We are all concerned,” he explained when asked whether the BCCI has been approached on the issue by any UK-bound squad member.

ICC Champions Trophy commences on June 1 and India’s first game is on June 4 against arch-rivals Pakistan. The squad led by Virat Kohli is set to depart for England on Wednesday.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the horrific attack in Manchester. The ICC and ECB place safety and security at the ICC Champions Trophy and the ICC Women’s World Cup this summer as the highest priority,” the ICC stated on Tuesday.

“The security situation has been very much front and centre of our preparations and we constantly review our procedures to guarantee they are as effective as possible to keep everyone safe,” it added.

Acting BCCI president, CK Khanna, said that the BCCI is in close touch with the ICC and the consultant of its Anti Corruption Unit, former Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar, was leaving for the UK tonight.

“BCCI is in touch with ICC. Neeraj Kumarji is going to UK tonight. He’s in regular touch,” said Khanna without explaining in what capacity he was going to England.

With inputs from PTI.