Champions Trophy: Pitch invader arrested, banned from Pakistan cricket venues
26 Feb 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that a pitch invader who breached security during the ICC Champions Trophy Group A match between New Zealand and Bangladesh was arrested and banned.

The incident occurred in Rawalpindi on Monday.

The invader managed to dodge security at the Rawalpindi Cricket Ground and approached New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra for a hug before being taken away by security.

Here's more.

PCB responds to security breach during Champions Trophy match
Security concerns

The security breach has raised concerns for the PCB, particularly since Pakistan are hosting a major ICC event for the first time since the 1996 World Cup.

"Ensuring the safety of players and officials remains our top priority," the PCB said via a statement in response to the breach.

Meanwhile, the board has also liaised with local security agencies who have promised to increase security personnel presence around all venues and strengthen access control measures.

PCB takes action against pitch invader
Legal action

The PCB has also taken legal action against the person who breached security.

"The individual involved was arrested and presented before a court of law today (Tuesday). In addition, he has been permanently banned from entering all cricket venues in Pakistan," the statement read.

The move comes as part of the board's efforts to ensure player safety and prevent future security breaches at cricket matches.

PCB strengthens security measures after pitch invasion
Security enhancement

As mentioned, in the aftermath of the pitch invasion, the PCB is working with security agencies and venue authorities to re-evaluate and strengthen security protocols.

The move is aimed at avoiding a repeat of such incidents in future matches.

Despite the shocking incident, Ravindra's brilliant century (112 off 105 balls) helped New Zealand defeat Bangladesh by five wickets and book a place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals.

New Zealand beat Bangladesh to secure semis berth
Match recap

As mentioned, New Zealand beat Bangladesh in their second Group A encounter to reach the Champions Trophy.

The Black Caps successfully chased down 237 on the back of Ravindra's incredible century at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

He was supported by Devon Conway (30) and Tom Latham (55).

Earlier, Michael Bracewell's four-wicket haul (4/26) restricted Bangladesh to 236/9 in 50 overs.

Meanwhile, for Bangladesh Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Rishad Hossain, and Mustafizur Rahman returned with one wicket each.