In an unfortunate incident, the Australian team bus was attacked by a stone while the team was on the way back to the hotel after the completion of the 2nd T20I in Guwahati. The visitors had defeated India comprehensively to level the series 1-1 at the Barsapara Stadium that hosted its first ever international game.
The opening batsman Aaron Finch posted an image on Twitter in which a window of the bus was broken. He wrote in his tweet, “Pretty scary having a rock thrown through the team bus window on the way back to the hotel!!”. Fortunately, no injuries were reported and all the players reached the hotel safely.
Pretty scary having a rock thrown through the team bus window on the way back to the hotel!! pic.twitter.com/LBBrksaDXI
— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) October 10, 2017
The incident was deeply condemned by everyone and the local police came into the act for the investigation. They have arrested 2 individuals in the matter.
“We made every attempt to ensure a foolproof security but don’t know how this happened. It was near the team hotel and not at the crowded street near the stadium,” Buragohain was quoted as saying by PTI.
“The police have already arrested two persons and are investigating into the matter. I can assure that such incident won’t occur in future again. There will be a thick security cover when the Australian team leaves for Hyderabad,” he added.
The Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal condemned the attack and tweeted his displeasure. “Really unfortunate incident after a great game aimed to tarnish Guwahati’s reputation as emerging sports hub. We strongly condemn it. Vow to take the strictest action against the culprits. The investigation is in full swing & Police have already picked up 2 suspects.”
“Whoever got indulged in the hooliganism did it on the sole objective of defaming Assam & derailing its journey towards the top. That’s a design we will foil with the support of the people of Assam. Culprits will face full force of law & given exemplary punishment,” he added.
The Sports Minister of India Rajyavardhan Rathore assured the visiting team of security. He tweeted, “Guwahati stone-throwing incident NOT reflective of our security measures. Aus team & FIFA are content w/those. India remains a graceful host. Have spoken to @sarbanandsonwal Ji about the Guwahati incident. Personal security of visiting athletes & teams is extremely important for us.”
