The highly anticipated India-Pakistan cricket match in the World Cup held in New York saw unprecedented security measures put in place to ensure the safety of players and fans. Former top cop Neeraj Kumar, who has experience in policing in India, noted the stark differences between security protocols in India and the western world.
The security at the Eisenhower Park, where the Nassau County Stadium is located, was multi-layered, with a combination of both Eastern and Western policing styles. Hundreds of police officers and security personnel were deployed to the venue, with frisking, screening, and checking being conducted at multiple security checkpoints.
The presence of Indian fans outnumbered Pakistani supporters, creating a vibrant atmosphere akin to a home match for the Indian team. The match, which was sold out, lived up to its billing with a patient and enthusiastic crowd cheering on their favorite players.
As the ICC considers the USA a special project for cricket, there is a challenge to maintain interest in the sport leading up to the Los Angeles Games in four years. Unique initiatives may be needed to keep American interest alive, such as the creation of a pop-up stadium.
The possibility of hosting a tournament among past T20 World Cup winners, encompassing both men’s and women’s cricket, is being considered as a way to generate excitement. With the US being the largest market globally, cricket’s future success may depend on its ability to engage American audiences.
Overall, the India-Pakistan cricket match in New York showcased the immense potential for cricket in the US, highlighting the need for continued efforts to promote the sport and attract a wider audience.