Pak vs Aus: Security beefed up after Peshawar blast

RAWALPINDI: Following the Peshawar suicide attack on Friday, which martyred 57 worshippers during prayers and injured nearly 200, the local authorities have tightened up security arrangements throughout the city and closed Stadium Road to all traffic on Friday. 

All shopping malls and markets in the vicinity of the stadium are already closed for the first Test match between Australia and Pakistan played at Pindi Cricket Stadium.

The local government has banned all types of car parking along Stadium Road and has relocated it to Rawal Road Park. Due to security concerns, it has also prohibited families from visiting Rawal Road Park and Allama Iqbal Park on a regular basis.

The local administration has demanded the deployment of Rangers and Army officers near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, according to sources. According to the reports, the Rangers and Army will reinforce the security with police officers.

The Rawalpindi Division Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner (DC), and City Police Officer (CPO) visited Stadium Road to inspect security arrangements. Over 450 police officers are on duty during the Pakistan-Australia match.

Sniffer dogs are checking every nook and corner of Stadium Road for any potentially hazardous materials. 

All types of vendors have been evacuated from the area surrounding Stadium Road by police. During the match, the local management has asked Metro Bus Management not to stop buses at the Shamsabad Station.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald says team in 'really, really good hands'

Hours after a blast, Australia coach Andrew McDonald said that his team is in “really, really good hands” and will make all decisions based on experts' opinions.

The success of Australia's first tour of Pakistan in 24 years could potentially lead to regular visits by top teams who have largely shunned the South Asian country since a 2009 attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore.