A large number of spectators went berserk hurling water bottles and chair covers inside the ground after the fifth and final one-day international cricket match between India and Sri Lanka was abandoned due to an “unplayable pitch” at the Ferozeshah Kotla stadium here on Sunday.
Soon after play was stopped and the pitch was being inspected by officials, the fans realised that the match would be eventually abandoned. They started shouting slogans against the organisers and some protesters hurled water bottles and chair covers into the ground, littering the entire outfield. Some turned violent and broke some chairs, while others demanded a refund of their tickets.
Apprehending that things would go out of hand, extra policemen were rushed in. Using mild force against those trying to damage property, they contained the unruly protesters. “Our priority was to prevent any violence outside the stadium and so we cordoned off the roads first. All the exit gates were opened and the door-frame metal detectors installed there were removed to ensure a smooth passage to the spectators,” said a police officer.
Spectators tore up some banners put up outside the stadium.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central Delhi) Jaspal Singh said no untoward incident took place while evacuating the stadium and that all the measures were taken as per the set drill. “No one has been detained and no case has been registered,” he added.
No major damage to the stadium has been reported.
