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| Trent Bridge prepares for trouble ![]() A steward unravels plastic fencing at Trent Bridge Cricket authorities are asking for emergency powers to fine fans who run onto the field during Tuesday's NatWest one-day match between Pakistan and Australia. The move is an attempt to defuse the crowd security crisis that is threatening to wreck the entire tournament. The England and Wales Cricket Board and Nottinghamshire CCC want to avoid a repeat of the pitch invasions that have marred games at Edgbaston and Headingley. "We are trying to push through emergency legislation to make it a finable offence to come on to the pitch at Trent Bridge," an ECB spokesman said.
"I will be speaking to the Home Secretary, David Blunkett, and I have asked my officials to look to see what can be done immediately," new Sports Minister Richard Caborn confirmed. Notts have responded by doubling the number of stewards who will be on duty, and also plan to use plastic fencing to ensure the safety of players and staff is not compromised. Similar fencing is used by the Rugby Football Union for England matches at Twickenham. "Two minutes before the end of the game, stewards encircle the pitch and crouch pitch-side so as not to obstruct the crowd's view.
"We started using the system two years ago and since it was introduced, we have had no problems with post-match pitch invasions." Nottinghamshire are keen to promote co-operation with Pakistani fans. Chief executive David Collier said: "We've got Urdu and Punjabi speakers on our public address, we've got posters that we've printed up asking people to assist us. "The Pakistani community are very enthusiastic about their cricket and we do wish to appeal to them to work with us to maintain safety. " Local police have urged spectators to use common sense. "As the police commander, I am aware that contingency plans have been formulated by the club, which involves a much larger number of stewards, and other measures," said Chief Inspector Chris Shardlow. "The police contingent will be going in support of these measures. However, we are heavily dependent on the goodwill of fans for these plans to work effectively." |
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