ICC on alert after explosions rock Manchester Arena
We will continue to work with authorities over the coming hours and days and review our security in line with the threat levels.
LONDON: The ICC will continue to review its security procedures ahead of next month’s Champions Trophy and the Women’s World Cup in England and Wales, insisting safety is its top priority following the explosion at the Manchester Arena.
Twenty-two people were killed and 59 injured in an explosion at the end of an Ariana Grande concert. The Champions Trophy is from June 1-18, with matches at Edgbaston, Cardiff and The Oval. England will also host the Women’s World Cup from June 24-July 23.
A statement from the ICC, world cricket’s governing body, on Tuesday read: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the horrific attack in Manchester. The ICC and ECB [England and Wales Cricket Board] place safety and security at the ICC Champions Trophy and ICC Women’s World Cup this summer as the highest priority.
“We operate on advice from our Tournament Security Directorate - in conjunction with the ECB and relevant authorities - to ensure that we have a robust safety and security plan for both tournaments.
“We will continue to work with authorities over the coming hours and days and review our security in line with the threat levels.
“The security situation has been very much front and centre of our preparations and we constantly review our procedures to guarantee they are as effective as possible to keep everyone safe.”
England international Danielle Wyatt was among those in attendance at the concert and took to Twitter to confirm she was safe. “Thank you for all msgs - I’m safe,” wrote the 26-year-old all-rounder.
BCCI FLAGS CONCERN The BCCI has raised concerns about the Indian team’s security. “The ICC has responded to our message within two hours. They have been sensitised about our concern,” acting BCCI jointsecretary Amitabh Choudhary said.
Acting BCCI president, C K Khanna, told HT, “The BCCI anti-corruption and security officer Neeraj Kumar has left for England tonight. He and the Board officials concerned are in touch with ICC.”