Fans facing big security crackdown

BACKPACKS will be banned at the World Cup of Golf in Melbourne this week and security stepped up at MCG cricket blockbusters in response to terror threats.

Public parking will be closed at the MCG for tomorrow’s Australia-India Twenty20 and the opening day of the Boxing Day Test to increase safety.

Permanent bollards will be installed at the MCG this summer to prevent vehicle attacks on pedestrians and the venue is considering only allowing clear plastic bags into the ground.

PGA Tour vice president Matt Kamienski said banning backpacks was in the interests of the sporting public and expected it would become the norm at major events.

“Unfortunately it’s just the day and age we live in and we need to take the precautions to make sure that everybody is safe,’’ he said.

“We want to make sure we protect the people coming on site and protect the players and everybody.’’

Mr Kamienski said security would be tight at the World Cup of Golf starting today.

No bags larger than a small purse measuring 15.24cm x 15.24cm will be admitted, including cases, backpacks, camera bags and chair bags.