As fans eagerly await the much-anticipated high-voltage T20 World Cup 2024 clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India, the United States has ensured “additional security” for the match scheduled for June 9 at the County International Cricket Stadium. from Nassau to New York. .
“We've been preparing for that game because we know it's the biggest game in the world and we'll have extra security on that day,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said while speaking to Indian media.
His comments come after the city administration last week beefed up security measures amid attack threats issued by a terrorist group.
Revealing the details of the security plan for the big day, Blakeman said they have the services of the Nassau County Police Department, the New York State Police, the State Park Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) , Port Authority Police, MTA police, Marshall firefighters along with volunteer firefighters and Customs and Border Patrol personnel.
“We're going to be prepared for anything that might happen, and we're pretty sure it won't happen. But if it does, we're ready,” he said.
The Nassau County official's reassurance comes after Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder assured that the game venue was the “safest location” for the match between Pakistan and India.
“I can guarantee you that this is the biggest security we've ever had to do in the history of this county, and I can also guarantee you that the safest place to be in Nassau County on June 9 will be inside that stadium,” he said Ryder.
Additionally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has already dismissed reports of threats and noted that she had been working with law enforcement to ensure the safety of visitors and New Yorkers during the Cricket World Cup.
“I have also directed the New York State Police to adopt heightened security measures, including increased police presence, advanced surveillance and comprehensive screening processes. Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring that the Cricket World Cup is a safe and enjoyable experience,” he maintained.
Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has also stressed on “robust” security measures at all venues during the mega event.
“The safety of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust safety plan in place,” an ICC spokesperson said, adding that the body continues to monitor the situation to mitigate any risks.
Team templates
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Azam Khan, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
India: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh , Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
