Shiv Sena's act an alarm signal: Bindra

Punjab Cricket Association president I S Bindra described the attempt to damage the Mohali stadium pitch as an "alarm signal" and cautioned the Board of Control for Cricket in India to alert other centres ahead of the upcoming India-Pakistan series.

"It was an alarm signal. Better to take precautions even due to this minor hiccup," he said on Friday, reflecting on the Shiv Sainiks unsuccessful attempt to damage the pitch.

"It [the incident] is not sufficient to cause tension but we have cautioned the BCCI to alert other centres as there is a criminal conspiracy behind the incident," Bindra told reporters in Mohali.

The former BCCI president said PCA treasurer G S Walia had spoken to BCCI president Ranbir Singh Mahendra and secretary S K Nair in addition to a written report sent last night.

"The BCCI president and secretary were happy that no damage had been caused to the pitch. We have sent a report to the BCCI and it is for the two boards to interact," he said.

According to the police, the plan was hatched by Shiv Sena's northern region chief Jai Bhagwan Goyal, in Delhi, whose role had been detailed by the six persons arrested by the Punjab Police.

"We were lucky and fortunate that they were apprehended before any damage was done," Bindra said.

He said after detailed discussions with top Punjab Police officials, ADGP (Crime) and DIG, Ludhiana Range were deputed as nodal officers for ensuring fool-proof security arrangements.

"We reviewed the situation. There is perfect coordination among us," he added.

Bindra said investigations indicate that "the incident was directed from above. People of Punjab are not involved as Shiv Sainiks were imported from Haryana".

He said police have also decided to conduct anti-sabotage checks at regular intervals.

"I am pretty confident that every thing will be in control," Bindra said. Yesterday's incident would be forgotten as soon cricket takes over and such actions could not damage the spirit of cricket, he said.

The PCA, he said, is making arrangements for the visit of 7,500 spectators from Pakistan who would be able to purchase tickets at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, through counters to be opened by the PCB.

"A Pakistan Punjab's cricket team is also to visit Patiala to play a match with the Indian Punjab team as part of the Patiala Heritage Festival," Bindra informed.