Prankster sparks World Cup security fear at India, Australia World Cup game

8 October 2023 05:29 pm Views - 2919

Officials stop a pitch invader (R) as India's Virat Kohli (L) watches before the start of the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup one-day international (ODI) match between India and Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 8, 2023

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A pitch invader breached heavy security and fencing to break onto the field at the Cricket World Cup game between India and Australia on Sunday, getting to within touching distance of players including superstar Virat Kohli.

British YouTube prankster Daniel Jarvis stunned the crowd of around 30,000 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium when he appeared wearing a blue India team shirt with "Jarvo 69" written on the back.

Kohli appeared to speak with Jarvis before security escorted him away.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) said they will consider "if additional security measures are required to prevent it happening again".

"The individual concerned has been banned from attending any further games at the event and the matter is in the hand of the Indian authorities."

Jarvis has become a serial pitch invader, making it onto the field three times during England's home Test series against India in 2021.

He was charged with aggravated trespass after colliding with England player Jonny Bairstow at the Oval.

"How has Jarvo managed to get a visa when not a single Pakistani journalist has one?" asked Wisden cricket journalist Ben Gardner on social media on Sunday.

Pakistan media and fans have been frustrated in their attempts to get to India for the World Cup due to visa delays. (AFP)

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A pitch intruder is removed during the Second LV= Insurance Test Match: Day Three between England and India at Lord's Cricket Ground on August 14, 2021 in London, England

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