Team India under temporary lockdown, restricted to team hotel after Birmingham security alert

Team India during practice session in Birmingham (AP Photo)

The Indian cricket team, currently in Birmingham for the second Test against England, experienced a temporary restriction to their team hotel on Tuesday following the discovery of a suspicious package in the city’s bustling Centenary Square. The incident, which unfolded this afternoon, prompted a rapid response from local authorities, leading to a period of uncertainty for the squad as they prepared for a crucial match.

The alert began when West Midlands Police were notified of a suspicious item in Centenary Square just before 3pm BST. A cordon was swiftly established around the area, and several buildings, including the prominent Library of Birmingham and Symphony Hall, were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Police officers, including a bomb disposal unit and dog teams, quickly converged on the scene to assess the package. The area was particularly crowded on Tuesday due to a concert by singer Livi at Birmingham Town Hall, adding to the urgency and complexity of the response operation.

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A source within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the Indian team, many of whom were just returning from an optional practice session at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, were immediately advised by their security unit not to leave their hotel. This directive was issued following social media updates from Birmingham City Centre Police, urging the public to avoid the affected area and stay clear of Centenary Square while the assessment was ongoing.

Normally, Indian cricketers are known to explore the vibrant surroundings near their hotel, including Broad Street, which is dotted with restaurants and shops. However, Tuesday’s developments put a complete halt to such plans, with all players and staff remaining indoors.

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The temporary lockdown lasted for approximately an hour. By around 4:30pm BST, police lifted the cordon after the suspicious package was thoroughly examined and deemed non-threatening. While the exact nature of the package was not disclosed, the swift resolution allowed for a return to normality in the city centre and around the team’s accommodation.

This security scare comes just ahead of the highly anticipated second Test of the series, set to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston. Despite the brief disruption, the Indian team is now expected to continue their preparations without further hindrance. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present need for vigilance and strong security protocols during major public events.

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