Web Desk: India’s hosting of the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup has drawn uncomfortable attention after two separate incidents involving Australian women cricketers one involving harassment in Indore and another a bizarre rodent encounter at a hotel in Visakhapatnam.
According to Indian media reports, two Australian players were harassed in Indore while walking from their hotel to a nearby café on Thursday morning. A man on a motorcycle reportedly followed and inappropriately touched one of the players before fleeing the scene.
The players immediately sent an SOS alert and informed their team security manager Danny Symons, who filed a police complaint. Acting swiftly, police registered a case under Sections 74 (use of force to insult a woman’s modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
A suspect identified as Aqeel Khan was later arrested after a passerby noted his motorcycle number. Local police confirmed the accused had multiple prior criminal records.
“The incident occurred near Khajrana Road. The investigation is ongoing, and security for the Australian team has been further tightened,” said senior police officer Nidhi Raghunshi.
Visakhapatnam Incident
Earlier in the tournament, another embarrassing episode occurred in Visakhapatnam, when a rat appeared in the dining area of the hotel where the Australian team was staying. Players were reportedly having dinner when the rodent suddenly ran across the room, prompting panic.
Video clips circulating on social media show players screaming and climbing onto chairs to avoid the animal as hotel staff struggled unsuccessfully to catch it.
“We had just finished dinner and were about to leave when the rat suddenly ran out,” one player said in the viral video. “Everyone thought it was gone, but it came back, and that’s when we all screamed.”
The incidents have sparked criticism online, with commentators questioning India’s preparedness and hospitality standards during a global sporting event, and accusing local authorities of negligence in ensuring players’ safety and comfort.
