Wimbledon advises players not to do a 'Bairstow' and tackle protesters during coveted Tennis tournament

Wimbledon is likely to advise players not to tackle the ‘Just Stop Oil’ protesters amid reports of them targeting the Championships. Recently, England cricketer Jonny Bairstow was seen tackling a protester and taking him off the field after they interrupted the play on Day 1 of the second Test of Ashes 2023 at Lord’s. The group recently disrupted the Grand National, the World Snooker Championship and the Premiership rugby final as well.

Hence, the organisers of Wimbledon are on high alert and prepared to stop any kind of in-court invasions and play interruptions during the tournament. According to reports, in a bid to avert any future interruptions, the All England Club (AELTC) has shared information with the England Cricket Board (ECB) and Silverstone, the venue for the British Grand Prix next Sunday, July 2.

Michelle Dite, the operations director at the All England Club asked fans to respect the safety and enjoyment of all and informed them about the reviewed security plans.

“Throughout the year we work closely with the Metropolitan Police and other relevant organisations to ensure that The Championships is as safe and secure as possible and that our plans and measures are commensurate with the threat level and prevailing risks,” Dite was quoted as saying by Independent.

“Based on what has happened at other sporting events, and on the advice from our key partners, we have reviewed our security plans, which have now been uplifted for the championships accordingly,” he added.

Australia take a 91-run lead over England in the first innings

Meanwhile, in the second Test of the Ashes 2023 at Lord’s, Australia have taken a lead of 91 runs on Day 3 after bundling out England for 325 in reply to Australia’s first innings score of 416. Mitchell Starc was the pick of the bowlers on his return to the team as he picked up 3/88 in his 17-over spell.

Australia attacked England with a short ball strategy with paid dividends as the hosts were cruising at 188/1 on Day 2 of the Test. Australia are 12/0, at Lunch on Day 3, with openers Usman Khawaja (6*) and David Warner (5*) at the crease, as the visitors lead by 103 runs.