Ireland tightens security for Afghanistan ODI seri…
Cricket Ireland has confirmed that extensive security arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan amid concerns over possible protests during the fixtures. The series, scheduled to begin on August 5, has attracted criticism from campaigners over the treatment of women in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.
According to a BBC Sport report, Cricket Ireland is working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), to ensure the safety of players, officials, spectators and staff throughout the series.
In a statement to BBC Sport, Cricket Ireland said:
“Appropriate security measures are in place, and all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and security of players, supporters, officials and staff.”
The governing body has faced criticism for agreeing to host Afghanistan despite growing calls from some politicians and activists to boycott matches involving the Afghan men’s team because women and girls remain barred from playing cricket in the country.
The PSNI also confirmed that a comprehensive policing plan has been prepared in anticipation of potential demonstrations at the venues. Police stressed that while peaceful protest is a protected right, public safety and the rights of others must also be respected.
A PSNI spokesperson said:
“The right to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly are fundamental human rights. They are protected in law and allow individuals to engage in peaceful protest.”
The spokesperson added:
“However, these rights are limited by the need to uphold the rights of others, protect public health and safety, minimise disruption to normal life and by the need to prevent and detect crime.”
Police further warned that action would be taken if any protest crossed legal boundaries or created an unacceptable impact on others.
The spokesperson said:
“If the Police Service identifies potential criminal offences, or unacceptable impact on the rights of others, we will take lawful and proportionate action.”
Despite the controversy surrounding the series, Cricket Ireland has indicated that preparations will continue as planned, with organisers focused on ensuring the matches are staged in a safe and secure environment. The governing body has not announced any changes to the schedule.
The five-match ODI series will begin at Bready Cricket Club, which will host the opening two matches before the action shifts to Stormont for the remaining three fixtures.
The full schedule is as follows:
• 1st ODI: August 5 – Bready
• 2nd ODI: August 7 – Bready
• 3rd ODI: August 10 – Stormont
• 4th ODI: August 12 – Stormont
• 5th ODI: August 15 – Stormont
The series remains significant for both teams as they continue preparations for future ICC events. While the focus on the field will be on cricket, organisers are also preparing for possible demonstrations outside the venues. Cricket Ireland and the PSNI have reiterated that security remains their top priority and that appropriate measures are in place to ensure the series proceeds safely while respecting the legal right to peaceful protest.
