Ashes 2017-18: Security increased ahead of the Boxing Day Test

The need for added security in big games is paramount. The Ashes this year has been marred by off-field controversies. The issues apart from cricket have overshadowed the on-field performances and have taken the front seat in the daily newspapers. The series is headed towards the fourth match and the last thing that a fan wants is a security goof-up.

Man Charged 

Australia are already 3-0 up in the five match series with two to go. Security measures have been stepped up as Melbourne prepares to host the boxing-day Test at the MCG. A 32-year-old man has been charged with 18 counts of attempted murder after a car was driven at pedestrians outside one of Melbourne’s major transport hubs. The Flinders Street Station incident shook the residents of Melbourne as several casualties were reported of which the conditions of three are critical. The ECB issued a statement saying that all the players including the team management were safe and that extra precautions would be taken to ensure players’ safety.

Safety assured

“People across Victoria will already have noticed an increased police presence and that will continue to grow in coming days all the way through to New Year’s Eve fireworks and the other important festivities,” Victoria premier Daniel Andrews said as per the quotes on Sky News. “There will be more Victoria Police at things like the Big Bash, the soccer on at AAMI, the Boxing Day Test, Carols by Candlelight, all the way through to New Year’s Eve next week.” He added.

It is the festive season and the safety of the players is a major concern. The Victoria police must leave no stones unturned and must keep a watch around the stadium. However, Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland believes there is nothing to be worried about and Victoria has the experience of hosting bigger events in the past. “CA has great confidence in where we’re at and we share that with the MCC who are the ground managers and we look forward to a fantastic event.” Sutherland added.

The match is scheduled for Tuesday. Questions have already been raised over Root’s approach in the first three games and his reluctance to criticize his players for under performance. The English fans are waiting for their team to bounce back in the final two games that would ensure that they have something to take back from this disappointing tour.