Ausie women cricket stars face molestation in India
Cricket Australia has confirmed that two members of its women’s cricket team were “touched inappropriately” by a motorcyclist in Indore of Indian state of Madhya Pradesh while participating in the ongoing ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025.
In an official statement, Cricket Australia said: “CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women's team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter.”
The incident occurred on Thursday morning when the players stepped out from the Radisson Blu Hotel—where the entire Australian squad is staying—and were walking toward a nearby café along Khajrana Road.
According to Sub-Inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi, a man on a motorcycle began following them before allegedly touching them inappropriately and fleeing the scene.
The athletes immediately alerted their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security liaison officers and dispatched a vehicle to assist them.
Later that evening, Simmons filed a formal complaint at the MIG police station.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Himani Mishra met with the players, recorded their statements, and registered a First Information Report under Section 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and Section 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Authorities said a bystander played a pivotal role in the investigation by noting the suspect’s motorcycle registration number. This led to the arrest of Aqeel Khan on Friday. “Khan has prior criminal cases registered against him, and an investigation is ongoing,” Mishra added.
The swift police response and cooperation between Australian team officials and Indian law enforcement have been noted, though the incident has sparked renewed discussion about the safety of international athletes during tournaments in India.
Cricket Australia has assured that the affected players are receiving full support and remain focused on the World Cup campaign.
Source: NDTV