T20 WC: Rohit Sharma seeks help for pitch invader as New York Police handcuffs fan during IND-BAN tie – Watch

India captain Rohit Sharma was seen seeking help from the team management for a fan whom the New York Police handcuffed for breaching security and entering the ground during the warm-up game against Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1). A pitch invader ran towards Rohit to hug him before two officers rushed to put him down, as seen in a video circulating on the internet.

ALSO READ:T20 World Cup: Tight security web highlight of India’s warm-up match amid threat concerns

Just when the police personnel grabbed him and were about to handcuff him for breaching security, Rohit tried calming everyone, urging the officers to go easy on the Indian fan. After realising that the police would go about their business their way, Rohit immediately asked someone from the team management to rush and help the fan.

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Later, the police personnel escorted the pitch invader out of the ground.

Watch the Video here –

Meanwhile, the local security agencies inNassau County, in addition to the state police, are on high alert to ensure the smooth hosting of the 20-team tournament in the States for the first time.

Following a threat from the ISIS-linked terror groups, mainly targeting the Indian Team ahead of their marquee clash against Pakistan, the security web is tightened in and around the venue, with surveillance, ground security, personal screening and a helicopter hovering over the venue (during the IND-BAN game) all placed in line to curb any hiccups.

Moreover, the governor of the state of New York, Kathy Hochul, said in a statement from her office; "I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority, and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience."

India readies for T20 World Cup

The first batch of the Indian Team landed in the USA on May 26 before the remaining ones, involved in the IPL 2024 Final, joined them in New York for the T20 World Cup.

After landing in the States, the team resumed training at the newly-built Nassau County Cricket Stadium, one of the three venues to host T20 WC matches in America.

India is placed in Group A alongside co-host USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan.

Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on Pakistan in New York on Sunday (June 9).