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With just two days left for the first game of the 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), a major threat has surfaced. In one of the latest reports, it is being claimed that a terrorist attack is looming over this year's tournament.
Mumbai Police has been left on their toes as they suspect a terrorist attack is being planned during the tournament. The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of the state has been put on high alert after finding out that a few terrorists had done a recce of the Wankhede Stadium, Trident Hotel, and the surrounding road.
Following this suspected threat, the security cover for players and support staff of IPL teams has been increased. Quick Response Team, Bomb Squad, State Reserve Police Force have been deployed for security from March 26 to May 22. The Mumbai Police has also released Security Guidelines in an internal circular that needs to be followed by franchises as well as the staff associated with IPL.
The few points in the circular issued are as follows:
- IPL team's buses will be escorted by a combat vehicle.
- Parking of cars won't be allowed from the team hotel to the stadium. A separate Emergency exit has to be designated for the safety of players.
- The bus drivers and other workers will undergo thorough checks. They won't be changed during the course of the IPL.
- Prior permission needs to be taken from the team manager if a player is expecting a visitor.
- The hotel staff will not be allowed to enter without identification proof.
First game of IPL 2022 to be played on March 26
The first game of the 2022 edition will be played between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26. Notably, the Indian T20 League is returning to the country after almost two years. The officials have also allowed a 25% crowd for the first few games of the season. The number of spectators will be increased further as the tournament will progress.