Strong winds caused a ruckus at Ekana Stadium during Australia and Sri Lanka's World Cup 2023 clash as several hoardings fell from the roof onto the seats below leading to spectators running for cover. The incident took place after the rain stopped play. The dust storm was accompanied by strong gusts of winds. Several iron angles and branding material fell from the roof.
It was a blessing in disguise that there were not enough spectators during the five-time World Champions' second match at the venue.
Before the second innings, security personnel moved spectators to higher seats to prevent any casualties in case heavy winds returned during the course of the match.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faced flak for the incident on social media as users shared videos of spectators running for shelter while the hoardings fell.
This was the second World Cup match hosted at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow. The first one was Australia’s previous clash against South Africa where they ended up losing the match comprehensively.
Later in the month, Rohit Sharma-led India will take on defending champions England at the Ekana Stadium on October 29.
Australia opened their win account in the tournament with a convincing five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka. They chased down the target of 210 with 88 balls to spare. Opener Mitchell Marsh and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis scored half-centuries whereas Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis' cameos ensured that Australia got over the line quickly to boost their net run rate (NRR) which took a hit after losses to India and South Africa.
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