Two Australian players faced harassment in Indore ahead of their final Women’s World Cup league match against South Africa. A motorcyclist touched them inappropriately while they were walking to a café on Thursday morning. The incident happened a day after Australia’s victory over England.
Cricket Australia confirmed the matter in a statement. It said two members of the women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a café. The team immediately informed the police. Authorities then began investigating the case.
Rajesh Dandotiya, the additional commissioner of police in Indore, said they had already made an arrest. He said the team’s security manager filed a complaint about the incident. Police launched a quick operation and arrested the accused within six hours.
The accused, Aqeel, is from Khajrana and now lives in Azad Nagar. Police also confirmed that he has a past criminal record. After the arrest, officials met with the BCCI, MPCA, and other stakeholders to strengthen player security.
The police are now checking how the security plan failed during the players’ walk. The incident took place around 11 a.m. when the players were heading from Hotel Radisson to a nearby café.
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association released a statement expressing shock and sadness. It said no woman should ever face such behaviour. It also shared full support for the affected players.
The MPCA said the event deeply hurt everyone who values women’s safety and respect. It praised the Australian players for showing courage and continuing to compete with pride after the incident.
Australia now sit at the top of the World Cup points table. They need a win against South Africa to confirm their position and book a place in the semi-final.
