Lord’s beefs up security for biggest match since Just Stop Oil disrupted Test in 2023

Lord’s will have heightened security measures in place for England’s third Test against India with random spot checks to be carried out on spectators and hidden security guards in attendance.

The latest match, which begins on Thursday, of what is developing into a compelling series is the most high-profile game at the ground since the Ashes two years ago, raising concerns it could be targeted by protesters.

In accordance with the ground regulations flags and banners will be confiscated, while additional measures to protect the players in the pavilion that were introduced after some members’ verbal abuse of the Australian team remain in place.

Before those tumultuous scenes, the opening morning of the second Ashes Test in 2023 was interrupted by a protester from Just Stop Oil, who invaded the pitch and threw orange paint on the wicket before being carried off by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. Lord’s staged the World Test Championship final last month, when South Africa beat Australia to become world champions for the first time in any format, but India’s presence this week will guarantee a much bigger TV audience and global profile.

Lord’s is used to staging major matches however, and has drawn up what has been described as a rigorous if light-touch security plan. In addition to a visible security presence, plainclothes spotters will also be at the London venue.

Extra security measures including random spot-checks of spectators will be seen at Lord’s this week. Photograph: Ray Lawrence/TGS Photo/Shutterstock

The Marylebone Cricket Club, which owns Lord’s, was forced to increase security for the players ahead of a one-day international between England and Australia last September due to the fallout from the 2023 Ashes Test. Australia’s players were abused when they returned to the Long Room following Jonny Bairstow’s controversial runout by Alex Carey on the final morning, with cries of “cheat, cheat, cheat” ringing in their ears.

Three MCC members received bans from the club as a result and additional security measures were put in place in the pavilion last year. Those extra stewards will remain on duty this week, while the widening of the roped off area protecting players from members also remains in place.

Lord’s is guaranteed its biggest attendance since the Ashes Test two years ago, which Australia won by 43 runs on the final day as England narrowly failed to chase a tough target of 371 despite a stunning 155 from Ben Stokes. The opening four days are a complete sell-out and about 16,000 tickets have already been sold for the fifth day.

MCC declined to comment.