Australian cricketers faced a harrowing ordeal in Indore just days before a crucial ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 match, sparking a national outcry and urgent calls for enhanced athlete safety.
What Happened to the Australian Cricketers in Indore?
On the morning of October 23, 2025, two members of the Australian women’s cricket team were walking near the Radisson Blu Hotel in Indore when they were stalked by a man on a motorcycle. The situation escalated when one of the players was molested .
The incident, which occurred around 11 am on Khajrana Road, has sent shockwaves through the international cricketing community and raised serious concerns about the safety of female athletes in India .
Swift Arrest and Investigation
Following a tip from a vigilant bystander, the Indore Police acted quickly and arrested the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Akil Khan . He has been booked under charges of stalking and outraging a woman’s modesty .
MPCA’s Apology and Support
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA), the local host for the World Cup match, issued a heartfelt statement. “No woman should have to endure such trauma,” the MPCA said, extending its deepest apologies to the Australian team and its management .
The association also commended the players for their resilience in the face of such a traumatic event, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the safety of all visiting teams .
Global Reaction and Impact on the World Cup
Cricket Australia has officially confirmed the incident, describing it as a deeply distressing experience for their players . The team is scheduled to play South Africa at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on October 25, just two days after the attack .
The incident has cast a dark shadow over the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup, with fans and officials worldwide demanding stricter security protocols for athletes, especially women, traveling in India.
A Call for Action: Ensuring Athlete Safety
This event is not just an isolated crime; it’s a stark reminder of the persistent safety challenges women face globally. The swift arrest is a positive step, but it must be followed by systemic changes.
Key Demands from the Cricketing Fraternity:
- Enhanced, dedicated security for all international teams.
- Mandatory safety briefings for players in host cities.
- Zero-tolerance policies and faster judicial processes for crimes against athletes.
Timeline of the Incident
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| ~11:00 AM, Oct 23 | Australian cricketers stalked and molested on Khajrana Road, Indore . |
| Later on Oct 23 | Indore Police arrest suspect Akil Khan based on eyewitness tip . |
| Oct 24 | MPCA issues public apology and statement of support . |
| Oct 25 | Australia vs. South Africa World Cup match scheduled at Holkar Stadium . |
Sources
Times of India
Times of India
Cricket Australia
Times of India
Times of India
News reports
News reports
ICC Women’s World Cup Schedule