BCB promises WI U-19s extra security following explosion

The BCB has assured extra security to the West Indies Under-19 team in Chittagong, following an explosion near the team hotel in Chittagong on Saturday evening. Following the incident, the second youth ODI match between the two teams, scheduled for today, has been postponed to Monday.

The venue - the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium - the match timing, as well as the rest of the itinerary of the seven-game series will remain unchanged.

"The security agencies have assured the players and management that there was no risk to their safety," BCB director Akram Khan said. "Nevertheless, security measures will be reinforced further, as we will not compromise with matters that concern the well-being of international teams. The West Indies Under-19 side has expressed their confidence in the arrangements and it has been decided that the second match will get underway tomorrow."

A WICB media release said, "The players and members of team management were not targeted and were not in any immediate danger as a result of the incident.

"The WICB management has been in contact with team manager Altamont Solomon and will continue to receive regular briefings. The team gathered shortly after the incident and are safe at their team hotel and have been afforded additional security protection.

"The WICB is working with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to ensure the continued safety of the team. Further, WICB security manager Paul Slowe will formally assess the situation and provide a report to the WICB. The WICB thanks the BCB and Bangladeshi authorities for their efforts in hosting and providing security for the team. The WICB is contacting the parents and guardians of all the players, and will provide further updates as necessary."