The second Test of the five-match Ashes 2023 series went underway at the Lord’s Cricket Ground on Wednesday (June 18), with England winning the toss and opting to field first. However, the match during the morning session of the game was disrupted by a pitch invasion and witnessed a brief halt in play.
The ground was invaded by two of the ‘Just Stop Oil’ protestors who threw orange powder running across the ground. One of those activists was taken off the field by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. The English batter picked the boy up and escorted him outside the field. On the other hand, the security staff of the stadium caught the second protestor.
It is worth mentioning that Bairstow had to go to the dressing room to change his jersey following the incident, as it was covered in orange powder, which led to further delay in the match.
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) of the Lord’s Cricket Ground has now officially shared their reaction to the event. The MCC condemned the act of the protestors and called them out for their awful behaviour.
“MCC condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s pitch incursion and the behaviour of the protestors involved. Their actions not only endanger themselves and those who work at the ground, but they have consistently shown complete disregard for the people who pay to attend events, not just here at Lord’s but around the country at other sporting venues,” said MCC in their official statement.
MCC statement from CEO Guy Lavender: pic.twitter.com/UXj8gQ4bvk
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) June 28, 2023
MCC further also informed that all three pitch invaders had been arrested and are in the custody of the Metropolitan Police.
“Following the earlier pitch incursion, three people have been arrested for aggravated trespassing and taken into police custody and it is now a Metropolitan Police matter,” tweeted MCC.
Following the earlier pitch incursion, three people have been arrested for aggravated trespassing and taken into police custody and it is now a Metropolitan Police matter.
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) June 28, 2023
Speaking of the match, Australia batted brilliantly and finished the opening day on 339/5. David Warner and Travis Head contributed with impressive half-centuries for the visitors. Meanwhile, Steve Smith walked back unbeaten on 85 runs. Among England bowlers, Josh Tongue and Joe Root picked two wickets each.
