NEW DELHI: The Federation of
International Cricketer’s Association (FICA) once again raised the issue of
security during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL). FICA president Tim
May, a former Aussie cricketer, told TOI on Saturday that foreign players
urgently needed information on security arrangements during IPL because
independent Australian security experts have told FICA that the T20 event faces
threat from terror outfits, including Taliban.

“We have generic
inputs from an independent security agency in Australia that Taliban, a couple
of other right wing and terrorist groups could be a threat to the IPL and we are
really concerned about it. IPL is a high profile sporting event and that is why
we are asking the organisers to share the security arrangements of the
tournament with us,” May said.

“This is not just a matter of concern
for the Australian players, it is for all players who will take part in the IPL.
I am aware that players from across the world have written and made phone calls
to their franchises requesting details of security. Unfortunately, that has not
met with a positive response from the IPL. We are yet to be updated on the
security situation,” May said.

When asked whether there were any
specific inputs from security experts, May clarified: “There is nothing specific
but there are serious concerns. There might be a situation where players will
individually appoint security advisers to review those arrangements via their
respective boards.”

Meanwhile, the IPL authorities maintained that
there was no need to worry about the security arrangements for IPL. “There is
nothing to worry. The South African security agency – Nicholl, Steyn &
Associate – will be there to overlook the security arrangements. If the players
need any further clarification, they can directly contact the IPL,” a top IPL
official said.

A BCCI official when contacted, said: “Threat
perception is common these days and the rest of the world should know that South
African cricket team is touring India now. We haven’t got anything from the
respective board as yet.”

Meanwhile, the Australian Cricketers’
Association (ACA) chief executive Paul Marsh has reportedly said that the
players’ body was close to being handed over security plans for IPL.