Unprecedented security cover for Indians

The visiting Indian cricket team has been given an unprecedented security cover in Johannesburg in view of the world-wide volatile situation following the terrorist attacks on United States.

"Its a new age....we are sending a message by having India here," said Gauteng Cricket Association CEO Thabo Moseki.

"We also have an obligation to make sure that everyone coming into the stadium is safe," he said.

Hundreds of local Indian families and young Indian professionals are finding their way to the cricketers blocked.

Nina, a young computer specialist hailing from Mumbai, was aghast. "I brought my friends here hoping I would be able to introduce them to Sachin Tendulkar. I am now embarrassed. The security here is tougher than you would expect even in Indian grounds".

The stadium authorities were unusually busy checking every fan's identity. They had a partial relief though after the Indians chose to practice at Centurion Park in Pretoria, a distance of 60km from Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, for the second day running today.

Even though the cricketers are missing at the Wanderers and news on security checks has spread, fans were still queuing up outside the Stadium.

The Indians, even though happy at being allowed to concentrate on their cricket without any distraction, could do with a bit of home-away-from-home feeling which is usually provided by the expatriate Indians all over the world.

Mail Cricket Editor