Lord\u2019s will have heightened security measures in place for England\u2019s third Test against India with random spot checks to be carried out on spectators and hidden security guards in attendance.<\/p>\n
The latest match, which begins on Thursday, of what is developing into a compelling series, is the most high-profile game at the ground since the Ashes two years ago, raising concerns it could be targeted by protesters.<\/p>\n
In accordance with the ground regulations flags and banners will be confiscated, while additional measures to protect the players in the pavilion that were introduced after some members\u2019 verbal abuse of the Australian team<\/a> remain in place.<\/p>\n Before those tumultuous scenes, the opening morning of the second Ashes Test in 2023 was interrupted by a protester from Just Stop Oil, who invaded the pitch and threw orange paint on the wicket before being carried off by the England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow<\/a>. Lord\u2019s staged the World Test Championship final<\/a> last month, when South Africa defeated Australia to become world champions for the first time in any format, but India\u2019s presence this week will guarantee a much bigger TV audience and global profile.<\/p>\n Lord\u2019s is used to staging major matches, however, and has drawn up what has been described as a rigorous if light-touch security plan. In addition to a visible security presence, plainclothes spotters will also be at the London venue.<\/p>\n Extra security measures including random spot-checks of spectators will be seen at Lord\u2019s this week. Photograph: Ray Lawrence\/TGS Photo\/Shutterstock<\/p>\n The MCC<\/a>, which owns Lord\u2019s, was forced to increase security for the players ahead of a one-day international between England and Australia last September because of the fallout from the 2023 Ashes Test. Australia\u2019s players were abused when they returned to the Long Room following Bairstow\u2019s controversial run-out by Alex Carey on the final morning, with cries of \u201ccheat, cheat, cheat\u201d ringing in their ears.<\/p>\n Three MCC members received bans from the club as a result and additional security measures were put in place in the pavilion last year. Those extra stewards will remain on duty this week, while the widening of the roped-off area protecting players from members also remains in place.<\/p>\n skip past newsletter promotion<\/a><\/p>\n Subscribe to our cricket newsletter for our writers’ thoughts on the biggest stories and a review of the week\u2019s action<\/p>\n Privacy Notice: <\/strong>Newsletters may contain info about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties. For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/a>. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and the Google Privacy Policy<\/a> and Terms of Service<\/a> apply.<\/p>\n after newsletter promotion<\/p>\n