Miscreants attempt to damage Mohali pitch

Security personnel yesterday foiled an attempt by miscreants to vandalise the pitch at the Mohali Stadium, which is scheduled to host the first Test between India and Pakistan.

It appears to have been a politically-activated move, but one that was curtailed quickly as the men shouted anti-Pakistan slogans upon entering the ground, which alerted the staff to their presence. Police said the damage to the pitch was minimal.

IS Bindra, the president of the Punjab Cricket Association, was quoted by The Times of India as saying, "This kind of thing has happened for the first time in Mohali. But our security staff did a commendable job. One should not take an alarmist view of the situation. I have spoken to the DGP [Head of police] and we will further tighten up security."