Time to take invasions seriously

Sitting in the peak-hour morning traffic on my way to Lords this morning I was wondering what I could write about in this piece today. After a few moments of reflection it became obvious that one of the big issues coming to light in this World Cup is the post-match behaviour of some of the crowds around the country. It has been appalling from my eyes the way hundreds of spectators have rushed on to the ground like hungry, angry seagulls rushing to secure a dropped chip outside a fish and chip shop. Of course the dropped chip on an international cricket ground is one of the stumps taken as a souvenir, or a chance to touch one of their heroes. Seeing masses of spectators and security guards converging upon the centre square like crazy animals has soured the World Cup experience in many ways.

I was amazed when I read the event manager saying: "There is a tradition in England that people are allowed on to the field at the end of the game". This may be acceptable traditional practice during a leisurely County fixture when the supporters stroll on to view the pitch or play tennis ball cricket with their young children, but surely not during an event boasting the biggest names in the international game. What we are witnessing in this tournament is bewildering but certainly not surprising considering the events of recent times.

My amazement turned to disbelief when Browning continued: "There has been only one nasty incident involving a player, at Leicester, where Mohammed Azhuruddin was jostled by a spectator." Surely one incident, involving the captain of one of the visiting nations, is enough to prompt far stricter action by the organisers of this tournament. Almost as a token gesture Michael Browning concluded: "There is no question that the players have to be safe, and feel safe."

What is it going to take for the authorities to take this issue more seriously? Who would ever have dreamed that a few years ago some lunatic who decided he didn't like Monica Seles would stab the world's number one women's tennis player on court? I bet the security has taken massive steps forward in international tennis since then. In this age of nail bombings, celebrity murders and general disregard for humanity, a sportsman like an international cricketer is easy prey for any psychotic creature out there who can obtain access to their target by simply running fast enough on to the middle of an international cricket field.

With the recent events in the West Indies, India, Australia and Pakistan, surely enough is enough and spectators should be banned from running on to the field for at least ten minutes after the stumps have been drawn. As an international player I only hope it isn't a tragedy in this crazy world that causes people like Michael Browning and his administrative colleagues to stand up and realise that it is time to make a stand against this disgraceful and potentially dangerous behaviour. It is taking away the polish of this wonderful World Cup in England!

P.S. Pakistan look very strong don't they!

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