Gwalior has become a high-security zone as it prepares to host the 1st T20I between India and Bangladesh, with both teams receiving triple-layered protection. The match, scheduled for October 6, has seen heightened security measures with over 1,600 jawans deployed to safeguard the teams and secure the venue.
Enhanced Security Amid Protests
The increased security comes as a precaution due to a bandh call by the Hindu Mahasabha on the day of the match. The group is protesting the match to bring attention to perceived atrocities faced by Hindus in Bangladesh. This T20I marks an international cricket match being held in Gwalior for the first time in 14 years.
Upon their arrival at the Shankarpur Cricket Stadium, both teams were provided with comprehensive triple-layered security. Alongside the deployment of jawans, additional safety measures included the installation of drop gates and barricades at 26 locations and 14 intersections along the teams’ journey routes.
Team Arrivals
The Indian squad arrived in Gwalior on three separate flights. Young players like Mayank Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Riyan Parag reached the city at 8:30 AM from Bengaluru, after training in a special camp at the NCA. They were followed by Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and others at 11 AM. Senior players, including Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, arrived later at 1:55 PM.
The Bangladesh team also arrived on different flights, greeted by enthusiastic fans at the airport. Meanwhile, the Hindu Mahasabha organized a black-flag rally in protest against the match. However, the rally was conducted without permission, leading to the detention of protestors by the local police.