Indore harassment of Australian women cricketers has sparked national outrage—and legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar isn’t holding back. In a rare show of public fury, the former India captain demanded the harshest punishment for the accused, saying, “Lock him up and throw away the key.”
Table of Contents
- What Happened in Indore?
- Gavaskar’s Fiery Condemnation
- Swift Arrest and Ongoing Probe
- Threat to India’s Hosting Reputation?
- Reactions Across the Cricketing World
- Sources
What Happened in Indore?
During a pre-tournament outing in Indore ahead of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, two members of the Australian women’s cricket team were allegedly harassed by a motorcyclist who inappropriately touched them. The incident occurred in broad daylight near their team hotel, shaking the visitors and raising serious concerns about athlete safety.
Team security immediately reported the matter to local police, who launched a rapid investigation. Within hours, the accused—identified as Akil Khan—was apprehended and taken into custody.
Gavaskar’s Fiery Condemnation
Sunil Gavaskar, widely respected as one of India’s greatest cricketing ambassadors, did not mince words. Speaking to media outlets, he called the act “disgraceful” and “an insult to India’s tradition of hospitality.”
“This is not the India we know. If someone commits such a cowardly act against visiting athletes—especially women—then lock him up and throw away the key,” Gavaskar said emphatically.
He stressed that such incidents not only endanger players but also tarnish India’s image as a reliable and welcoming host for global sporting events.
Swift Arrest and Ongoing Probe
Indore police confirmed the arrest of Akil Khan, who reportedly has a prior criminal record. Authorities have filed charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to assault and outraging modesty.
Local officials have also increased security around team accommodations and training venues. “We are treating this with the utmost seriousness,” said a senior police officer. “No guest—especially an international athlete—should feel unsafe in our city.”
Threat to India’s Hosting Reputation?
The Indore harassment incident comes at a sensitive time, just weeks before the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 kicks off across multiple Indian cities. While the BCCI and ICC have expressed confidence in India’s preparedness, this event has reignited debates about on-ground safety protocols.
Cricket analysts warn that isolated incidents, if not addressed transparently, could impact future hosting decisions. “One bad headline can undo years of goodwill,” noted a sports governance expert.
Reactions Across the Cricketing World
Beyond Gavaskar, voices from across the cricket community have condemned the act:
- Cricket Australia: “We appreciate the swift action by Indian authorities and stand with our players.”
- BCCI: Reiterated its “zero-tolerance policy” toward any misconduct involving international teams.
- Female Indian Cricketers: Several current and former players took to social media, calling for systemic changes to ensure women athletes feel safe everywhere.
The incident has also prompted calls for mandatory safety briefings, dedicated escort protocols, and real-time emergency response systems for all visiting teams during major tournaments.
Sources
- Times of India – Gavaskar Furious After Indore Harassment
- BCCI Official Statement on Player Safety (October 2025)
- ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Host Guidelines
- [INTERNAL_LINK:Women Cricket], [INTERNAL_LINK:ICC Events]