A shocking incident has rocked the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 in India, as two Australian women cricketers were allegedly molested and stalked in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The disturbing event took place on October 23, just days before Australia’s scheduled match in the tournament, raising serious concerns over player safety and security arrangements for international athletes in India.
According to police reports, the two players were taking a short walk from their hotel, Radisson Blu, to a nearby café around 11 a.m. when a man on a motorcycle began following them. Eyewitnesses and CCTV footage later confirmed that the accused, identified as Aqeel Khan from the Khajrana area of Indore, allegedly inappropriately touched one of the players before fleeing the scene. The Australian team’s security manager immediately reported the incident to the local police, following which an FIR was registered at the MIG Police Station.
The accused was later arrested by Indore Police within hours of the complaint, and an investigation is underway. Police officials said the man has confessed to following the players but denied the charge of molestation. The CCTV footage and witness statements are being examined to establish the complete sequence of events.
Cricket Australia has issued a formal statement expressing shock and disappointment, urging the organisers and local authorities to ensure maximum protection for all athletes. “The safety and well-being of our players is our highest priority. We are in constant contact with the ICC and local security teams to ensure such incidents never occur again,” the statement said.
The incident has sparked outrage among cricket fans and human rights activists, who have demanded stronger safety measures for visiting players, particularly women. Many have also criticised the lack of security presence during the players’ walk, questioning why team escorts or female security officers were not provided outside the hotel premises.
Indore Police Commissioner assured the public that strict action will be taken and that additional security personnel have been deployed near the hotels housing international teams. “The accused has been arrested. We are committed to ensuring that all international players feel safe in our city,” he said.
The Australian team, though visibly shaken, continued with their training sessions under tight security. Officials confirmed that the players involved are receiving psychological support from team counsellors.
This shocking episode has cast a shadow on India’s hosting of the Women’s World Cup, which was meant to highlight the nation’s growing commitment to women’s sports. While India has hosted several major international tournaments successfully, incidents like this highlight the urgent need for better on-ground safety measures, awareness, and accountability.
As the investigation proceeds, the focus now shifts to how both the ICC and Indian authorities will respond to restore confidence among players and fans. Ensuring safety and dignity for women athletes is not just a legal responsibility but a moral one—one that defines the spirit of true sportsmanship.