ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has pledged to bolster security measures following a pitch invasion during New Zealand’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24.
A spectator carrying a photograph ran onto the field during New Zealand’s run chase and hugged batter Rachin Ravindra. Ravindra quickly distanced himself before teammate Tom Latham joined him to assess the situation. While broadcast cameras avoided showing the intruder, the disturbance was evident.
The security lapse has raised concerns, especially with Pakistan hosting the high-profile ICC event. In a statement on Tuesday, the PCB confirmed that the individual had been arrested, presented before a court, and permanently banned from all cricket venues in Pakistan.
Ensuring the safety of players and officials remains our top priority, the PCB stated. We have engaged with local security agencies, who have committed to increasing security personnel around the field of play at all venues and strengthening access control measures.
The incident has put security arrangements under scrutiny for the remainder of the tournament. The PCB is now working closely with law enforcement and venue authorities to reassess and reinforce protocols.
Despite the disruption, the match continued without further incidents, but the breach has highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of security measures.
