IND vs NZ: Old Trafford airspace to remain shut, ECB informs BCCI

The stadium has been made a ‘no fly zone’ for the semifinal clash between India and New Zealand.

An aircraft tows a banner with a political message as it flies over Headingley on Saturday, July 6.

The Old Trafford stadium has been made a “no fly zone” for India’s semifinal clash against New Zealand here on Tuesday.

The decision has been taken after consultation with the local authorities here, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has informed the BCCI.

“We had clearly stated about the breach of security and also raised concerns about the security of our players. Accordingly, ECB has sent a confirmation to CEO Rahul Johri that Old Trafford air space has been turned into a ‘No Fly Zone’ for the day,” a BCCI official, privy to the development, told PTI on condition of anonymity.

On Saturday, an unnamed private aircraft flew from Bradford zone with banners like “India stop Mob Lynching” and “Justice for Kashmir” over the Headingley air space on a number of occasions during the World Cup contest between India and Sri Lanka.

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This left ICC embarrassed as it was the second such breach of security after another aircraft flew with the banner “Justice For Balochistan” during the game between Afghanistan and Pakistan. A number of fans were evicted after a brawl inside the stadium premises, which is believed to have been triggered by the banner’s display. Despite assurances from West Yorkshire Police that such political slogans will not be allowed as they violate ICC’s code, there was no significant action, forcing the global body to express disappointment.

It is learnt that there is no restriction on private aircrafts being hired for publicity purpose. Bradford is a Pakistani-dominated region.