Foolproof security for World Cup ties at Mohali

Foolproof security arrangements would be in place for a smooth conduct of two league matches and a semi-final tie of the World Cup to be played at Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium in Mohali next month.

"As ICC is holding the World Cup, they have hired a retired DGP rank officer to draw up overall security plan for all the eight centres in India including the PCA. Our Association is also extending all cooperation to the ICC and local police in ensuring foolproof security for the three matches," PCA Secretary, M P Pandove told reporters here.

He said the ICC consulted with the Union Home Ministry to ensure foolproof security at the venues.

"The retired DGP who has also handled the Commonwealth Games security-related issues also had a meeting with top police brass of Chandigarh and Punjab," he informed.

The World Cup matches alloted to the PCA include the South Africa versus Netherlands tie (March 3), West Indies versus Ireland match (March 11) and semi-final match on March 30.

"It has also been decided that in case India reaches the semi-final stage, it will play the match at Mohali," said Pandove, who is also the BCCI's treasurer.

PCA Joint Secretary, G S Walia, said that the PCA was all geared up to hold the three matches.

Walia said that the rate of tickets for the two league matches had been announced and their sale would start from February 21 at the two outlets at the PCA and at designated branches of the Central Bank of India at Mohali, Chandigarh and Panchkula.

He also said that online sales of the league matches had commenced.

To a question, Pandove said that the present capacity of the PCA stadium is about 29,000-30,000.