A robust security plan has been put in place for the T20 World Cup in June, the organisers of the competition said on Tuesday (NZ time), after reports of a possible threat to the global showpiece surfaced in the Caribbean media.
Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley told the UK’s Sunday Express about a possible security threat to the 20-team event to be co-hosted by West Indies and the United States.
"Given the fact that bad actors can choose to misbehave in any way possible it makes it virtually impossible to completely seal off all opportunities," he said.
Cricket West Indies and the game’s global governing body, International Cricket Council, sought to allay any such fears in a joint statement.
"We work closely with authorities in the host countries and cities, and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event," they said.
"We want to assure all stakeholders that safety and security of everyone at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place."
An NZ Cricket players association spokesperson says it has faith the ICC will ensure the appropriate measures are in place for the tournament.
"Any threat needs to be taken seriously and we are in communication with NZC and the ICC following the news this morning.
"In general, we have a high degree of trust and confidence in the security management put in place for ICC events and we’re confident this will be managed well."
NZ Cricket spokesperson Richard Boock echoes those sentiments.
"NZC is confident the security of the teams, players, and public is the No.1 priority for the ICC and CWI, and that comprehensive plans are in place to evaluate and mitigate risks," Boock told Newshub.
"Our security personnel and consultants continue to liaise with the ICC to ensure we’re up to date with the latest developments and advice."
The biggest T20 World Cup will be played across nine venues, including six in West Indies.
Reuters/Newshub.
