The first match of the T20 World Cup will take place in a temporary stadium in New York, with security measures tightened ahead of the event. The 34,000 capacity venue at Eisenhower Park will host its first match on Monday, as South Africa faces Sri Lanka at 15:30 BST.
To prepare for the games held between June 3 and 12, the Nassau County Police Department is overseeing a massive security operation. SWAT teams with specialist snipers and plain clothes officers will be inside the ground to ensure safety. Officers from the narcotics division are also stationed on drop-in pitches to prevent tampering.
Nassau’s police force has collaborated with various agencies, including the New York Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and US Department Of Homeland Security to ensure that security measures are in place for the tournament. The park surrounding the ground will be closed off to the public on match days to prevent drone attacks.
Fans attending matches will be subjected to searches and will have to pass through airport-style security scanners before entry. Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County executive, emphasized that heightened security measures are necessary for this event, likening it to that of Super Bowl level security measures. The temporary stadium was built at a cost of £24m ($30m) and is expected to be dismantled after the event when land returns back to Nassau County.
The most high-profile match in the tournament’s group stage is between India and Pakistan on June 9th at the venue. Security measures include SWAT teams with specialist snipers and plain clothes officers inside the ground, as well as officers from narcotics division stationed on drop-in pitches watching out for any tampering attempts.
The park surrounding the stadium’s land will be closed off to public during matches days and fans attending matches are required undergo searches before entry while passing through airport-style security scanners.
In conclusion, Nassau’s police force has worked closely with multiple agencies such as NYPD, FBI and DHS in preparation for this event ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken in order for everyone’s safety during T20 World Cup matches held at Eisenhower Park Stadium
