India captain Rohit Sharma warned fans ahead of their T20 World Cup 2024 opener against Ireland which is scheduled to be played on June 5. World Cup co-hosts tightened security at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York after they reportedly received a threat from a terrorist organisation ISIS.
The parkland surrounding the ground will be closed off to the public on the eight match-days to counter the potential threat of a drone attack.
Rohit appealed to the fans not to enter the ground during the match. In the recent warm-up match between India and Bangladesh, a fan breached security to meet the Indian captain. This is the third incident of the year where a fan breached the security. The last time a fan breached the security to meet Rohit was during the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL).
"I think, look, the security of the players is important. Similarly, the security of the people outside is also important. We are playing cricket, yes, but those who are sitting outside, it is important for them to understand that there are rules and regulations of every country and it is very important to follow them and understand them. So, I will say this only, what can I say more than that. Look, there are different rules in India, there are different rules here. So understand the rules, what is there and what isn't. Watch the match, sit comfortably and see how well the stadium is made. You can watch the match comfortably. There is no need to run to the ground and come. There is no need to do this" said Rohit in pre match conference.
After the opener clash against Ireland, Rohit Sharma-led India will face Pakistan for their second match, a high-voltage clash of the tournament.
The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York where India will face Pakistan has been built at a cost of £24 million ($30m) and it will be dismantled after the tournament. The land will be handed over back to Nassau County.
Rohit Sharma on Rahul Dravid
Rohit revealed that he tried to convince Rahul David to stay and carry on as head coach but he decided to move on. Earlier, Dravid revealed that this is his last stint with team India.
"I tried to convince Rahul Dravid to stay on as coach. It will be tough to see him go,” said Rohit.
“He (Dravid) was my first International captain, he is a huge role model, he did a lot for the team over the years - I have personally tried to convince him to continue as a coach - I will not be able to see him go” added Rohit.
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