Patrick Ryder, the Nassau County Police Department Commissioner has revealed that Eisenhower Park stadium in New York is being fortified with elaborate security arrangements ahead of the forthcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match between Pakistan and India on June 9.
The match is expected to generate a large turnout given the long-standing rivalry between the two sides hence authorities are tightening their grip on safety following reports about possible threats.
It can be recalled that according to ESPNCricinfo, these extra security measures came after a few threats were made known while Governor’s office explained they had no credible threat to the public as per current intelligence available.
“This is like everything else when you have something this big and that many people there are no threats. We will ensure absolutely every vulnerability is closed off here in Nassau County for the safety of our residents. This is going to be our biggest security operation ever, and I can assure you it will also be the safest place in Nassau County on June 9th,” Ryder said.
To facilitate these measures, Eisenhower Park will remain closed to public from morning till sunset on D-Day and access into it will strictly involve walking through metal detectors. Security personnel would also restrict bags and drones. Additionally, only VIP ticket holders could park at the venue while other spectators would need alternative parking spaces.
Both ground based units of police and aerial patrols by transit police amongst others from federal, state & local levels of governance showed high level coordination- this was among other strategies adopted outside Nassau County which saw New York State Police enhance security under orders from Governor Kathy Hochul; including increased law enforcement presence, enhanced surveillance minute-by-minute screening processes all aimed at ensuring public safety.
Accordingly, International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that there is a comprehensive security plan encompassing all venues throughout the event. For instance, ICC maintains constant contact with host country officials who regularly evaluate worldwide security risks factors thereby ensuring that they are adequately minimized.
This match at Eisenhower Park Stadium forms part the eight matches program of the ICC T20 WC that is being held in this location, a fact, which underlines its magnitude. The Governor of New York and the ICC have pledged to make sure that the Cricket World Cup remains safe and memorable for everyone who takes part in it.
