Spectators protest when water runs out in Pune during India-New Zealand cricket test

PUNE, India (AP) — India cricket fans protested a lack of water and proper facilities at MCA Stadium in Pune during the opening day of the test against New Zealand on Thursday.

In humid temperatures peaking at 32 degrees, drinking water ran out before lunch time and no proper arrangements were made to replace it. As a rule, the Maharashtra Cricket Association doesn’t allow fans to bring their own refreshments into the stadium.

Spectators raised slogans against the MCA over the problems, and the MCA is expected to make better arrangements for the remainder of the test.

It is standard security protocol at all India cricket venues to not allow fans to bring in their own refreshments. Adequate food and water arrangements are made by host associations. No alcohol is allowed at any India sporting venues.

However, it has been a long-standing issue in Pune. Similar water problems cropped up when India last played a test here against South Africa in October 2019. This is the third test at this venue since 2017.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India standardized free drinking water at all venues during the 2023 ODI World Cup. But away from high-profile tournaments, the state associations are responsible for staging and administering international cricket at their venues.

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