‘There could be a physical fight in the future’ – Salman Butt raises security concerns following Lord’s Long Room incident

Salman Butt. (Photo Source: Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

The Ashes 2023 has been full of ups and downs; from Australia’s brilliant two-wicket win in the first Test to the controversial dismissal of Jonny Bairstow in the second Test, there have been many topics to touch upon in the marquee series so far.

One of the biggest talking points from the series has been the verbal altercation between Usman Khawaja and some members of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Both Khawaja and Warner were seen in a heated argument with the MCC members during the Lord’s Test. Furthermore, the members also booed the entire Australian team as they walked to the dressing room for lunch.

It was a given that the reactions came as a result of the controversial dismissal of English wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. It was in the 52nd over of the second innings when Bairstow walked out of the crease after leaving a ball from Cameron Green. It was at this moment when Alex Carey saw an opportunity and threw the ball towards the stumps and dismissed Bairstow.

The dismissal was not well received by the English fans, who opined that it was against the spirit of the game. Seeing the argument between Khawaja and the MCC members, former Pakistan cricketer Salman Butt has come forward and raised concerns over the security at the Lord’s Cricket Ground. Butt has also opined that if the security measures are neglected then it might result in a physical fight.

“There was a verbal altercation on this occasion, but there could be a physical fight in the future. There should not be any exception for Lord’s. The security of players should not be compromised. The areas where players are supposed to pass must have tight security,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

“I understand it is their tradition, but things could have escalated quickly, they should have a fence or glass in between. If they don’t want to do that, then at least change the passage for the players. This was very discouraging. You cannot misbehave with any player like this,” he added.