Pouring oil on troubled wickets

The politicians may have overcome many of the obstacles which prevented India and Pakistan meeting on the cricket field, but hardline activists are less likely to be won over by rhetoric and good intentions.

One of the first steps on the path to reconciliation should have been a match between Indian and Pakistan veteran cricketers in Agra on Thursday. But on Wednesday night, Shiv Sena, a right-wing Hindu group, dug up the pitch. "We condemn the policies of Pakistan and oppose the holding of cricket matches until Pakistan brings an end to terrorism," said a spokesman for the group.

Police said that activists entered the stadium with cans filled with oil in an attempt to set fire to the pitch. The vandals got as far as digging a hole in the wicket before police arrived and chased them away.

Condemnation was all the rage. "We condemn the action of the Shiv Sena and the pitch will be prepared again," fumed Sameer Chaturvedi, a member of the match organising committee. "The match will be held as scheduled. Damaging the pitch is an immature act. It can not be justified."

Local police have stepped up security round the ground, although those responsible for the vandalism have not been caught.