An LED screen inside Nassau County International Cricket Stadium displays match information before the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan. Authorities have increased security ahead of Sunday’s game, with a credible threat from ISIS-K being taken seriously until proven otherwise. This threat has specifically targeted the highly anticipated matchup at the cricket stadium on Long Island, referencing a viral online video calling for a “lone wolf to act out.”
In addition to the initial threat, officials received a more generic threat on Sunday morning, prompting an increase in security measures. This includes enhanced monitoring of the fence line, car checks, and patrols with horses and drones. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder assured that the cricket venue will be the safest place in Nassau County for the day.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman stated that months of security planning had gone into preparing for the World Cup, likening it to a security operation for the Super Bowl on steroids. This preparation involved coordinated efforts with federal partners such as the FBI and Department of Homeland Security. The security measures are in place to ensure the safety of players, staff, and spectators during the high-profile match.