The ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 has been marred by a deeply concerning security incident in Indore, where two Australian women cricketers were allegedly stalked, and one was physically accosted, by a man on a motorcycle. The rapid response from local authorities led to the swift apprehension of the accused.
Shocking attack on Australian women’s team players
The incident took place on Thursday morning as the female crickters walked from their hotel toward a nearby café on Khajrana Road, an area frequently visited by team personnel during the tournament. According to formal reports filed by Cricket Australia, the two players were persistently followed by a motorcyclist. The man allegedly approached the cricketers and committed an act of molestation against one of them.
Danny Simmons, the Australian team’s security manager, immediately lodged a complaint with the MIG police station. Local police deployed security personnel to the area to ensure the physical safety of the players. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Himani Mishra personally interviewed the Aussie players to record their statements and initiate the formal legal process.
Suspect arrested following crucial eyewitness tip-off
The investigation achieved a quick breakthrough when an alert bystander managed to record the registration number of the suspect’s motorcycle. Utilizing this key piece of evidence, police successfully identified and located the perpetrator.
The accused, identified as 28-year-old Aqeel Khan, a resident of Azad Nagar, was arrested late Friday evening. Police confirmed that Khan was known to have a prior criminal history. He has been charged under Sections 74 (criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the recently enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges. Authorities have pledged to fast-track the prosecution based on player statements, CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts.
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Cricket Australia and ICC review World Cup security
Cricket Australia released a statement confirming the event, offering high praise for the prompt and decisive action taken by the Indore police force. The governing body reaffirmed that player safety remains its highest concern and expressed gratitude to the local law enforcement.
“CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter,” Cricket Australia’s statement read.
In response to the incident, Indian security liaison officers have intensified vigilance at all remaining venues and team accommodations. Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is actively reviewing security protocols for all forthcoming World Cup fixtures across India.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation from the international cricketing community and fans, prompting calls on social media for heightened surveillance and robust support mechanisms for women athletes competing abroad. The episode underscores the persistent need for comprehensive player protection and gender-sensitive security enforcement during major global sporting events.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
