NEW YORK/ISLAMABAD: New York will enhance security measures for the upcoming T20 Cricket World Cup in June, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Wednesday, following reports of threats particularly concerning the India-Pakistan match.
“In preparation for the @cricketworldcup, my team has been working with federal & local law enforcement to keep attendees safe,” Governor Hochul posted on X, emphasizing that there is “no credible threat at this time.”
According to ABC News, a bulletin from the New York City Police Department indicated that extremists might see the tournament and related events in New York City as opportunities for violence or disruption.
“Recent pro-ISIS propaganda specifically referencing the upcoming India-Pakistan match at this major event raises concerns and underscores the need for heightened vigilance,” the bulletin stated, as reported by ABC News.
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder noted that the World Cup had received an ISIS-K-linked threat in April, along with more specific threats related to the India-Pakistan match.
Matches between India and Pakistan, who haven’t played a bilateral series in years due to political tensions, are among the world’s most-watched sporting events.
Governor Hochul announced that New York State Police would increase their presence, surveillance, and screening procedures for the tournament.
The T20 format is the newest among cricket’s three formats, which also include Tests and One Day Internationals. The ninth T20 World Cup will run from June 1-29, with matches at nine stadiums—six in the West Indies and three in the United States.
The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match on June 9 will be held at Eisenhower Park stadium in Nassau County, New York.
