ODI World Cup 2023: Kolkata Police Commissioner assures top-level safety for Pakistan team for Eden Gardens matches

Kolkata, the cricketing hub of India, had reportedly made an unusual request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The city, renowned for its passionate cricket fans, had asked for the rescheduling of a high-stakes World Cup clash between Pakistan and England, originally set for November 12th. This request comes in light of the fact that the date coincides with Kali Puja, the second-largest festival in West Bengal after the grandeur of Durga Puja.

However, amidst these intriguing developments, the city's diligent law enforcement is gearing up to ensure the safety and security of all teams involved. Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal reassured the cricketing fraternity, stating that they will "think differently" to provide impeccable security for the visiting Pakistan team.

“We have been managing successfully for years. So, this time we will organize everything in the same way. There will be no problem. We will think differently to provide proper security for the Pakistan team also, and that will be decided as the time comes nearer,” the commissioner asserted as reported by India Today.

Commissioner Goyal went on to emphasize their commitment to "proper policing" on the match days, ensuring that all aspects, including law and order, match management, and security, are meticulously taken care of. “We are looking after all aspects, including law and order, match management, and security. We are carrying out many things prior to that,” the commissioner added.

Key World Cup matches to be held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), the host for five crucial World Cup matches, including the semi-finals, has already engaged in discussions with the Kolkata Police. They have been granted the green signal to proceed with hosting four pivotal group-stage matches, featuring cricketing giants like India, England, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Moreover, cricket enthusiasts were taken aback by another revelation – a warm-up encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand, slated for September 29th at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, will be played behind closed doors.