Xtra Time Web Desk: The play was stopped momentarily after the first over of Day 1 of the Ashes test at Lords on Wednesday when two Just Stop Oil protestors invaded the pitch. The protesters managed to breach the security cordon and entered the field of play, causing a commotion by scattering orange powder paint in the air.
Jonny Bairstow, the England wicketkeeper batter, took it upon himself to remove one of the protesters from the field. He promptly picked up the intruder and carried him off the field, while another protester was swiftly tackled to the ground by security officials. Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin found humor in the situation and tweeted, “Good start to the 2nd test. Bairstow has done some heavy lifting already.”
England captain Ben Stokes also attempted to intervene and halt one of the protestors, but he was intercepted by a Lord’s steward who pushed the protestor down. Despite the disruption, play resumed shortly after Bairstow had a moment to change his shirt, allowing the Test match to continue.
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It is worth noting that this is not the first time Just Stop Oil protestors have disrupted sporting events. They previously invaded the World Championship Snooker tournament and also caused disruptions at the Epsom Derby, although they failed to enter the racecourse on that occasion.
Earlier in the match, England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to field first, taking advantage of the overcast conditions.