A group of around 70 pro-Tamil supporters on Monday protested against the Sri Lanka cricket team and tried to prevent them from entering the Trent Bridge stadium.
The Sri Lankan team, which is playing Australia in the group match of the ICC World Twenty20, was delayed as the protestors, who shouted slogans like 'Ban Sri Lanka from International Cricket' tried to block the players' way as they entered the stadium.
The protestors, armed with placards condemning the Sri Lankan government's "human right abuses", were voicing support for the Tamil people, who they believe suffered during the Sri Lankan army offensive to eliminate the LTTE.
"If the England," said a protestor, "can ban Zimbabwe from playing cricket in this country on human rights grounds, then the situation in Sri Lanka is even worse. Why are they allowing Sri Lanka to play in this country.
"We want the British goverment and cricket board to ban the Sri Lanka team from playing cricket in this country."
Nottinghamshire police immediately swung into action and ensured that the protests did not turn violent.
"We are currently facilitating a lawful protest outside Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. In total there are around 70 protestors, who are pro-Tamil supporters. Throughout the protest, we will ensure that public safety is maintained and people are allowed to go about their normal business," Nottinghamshire Police chief inspector Steve Haylett said.
Photograph: Harish Kotian
