The second Ashes Test at Lord’s was interrupted by the Just Stop Oil protestors just two overs into the game today (June 28).
You can bet on the 2023 Ashes with our Match Centre partners, bet365.
The second Ashes Test at Lord’s has got off to a strange start with Just Stop Oil protestors invading the playing area, resulting in a lengthy stoppage of play just into the second over.
Just as Stuart Broad readied himself to bowl the second over after James Anderson finished his first, there was widespread commotion on the field as two protestors ran onto the field and disrupted play.
Jonny Bairstow, the England wicketkeeper was seen carrying one of the protestors, quite literally, off the ground. He soiled his kit in the process and had to go inside the dressing room for a quick change of clothes.
Jonny Bairstow just picked up a pitch invader and escorted him off the field #Ashes pic.twitter.com/BKEq95DYib
— Josh Schönafinger (@joshschon) June 28, 2023
The two protestors each carried orange powder, as has become customary during their interruptions at sporting events. Protestors have disrupted flagship events in snooker and rugby in 2023.
However, no orange powder made it to the pitch, with the stewards and players working quickly to ensure they were kept away from the playing area. After a short delay in which the dust was swept up, play was able to continue.
England were delayed by Just Stop Oil protestors on their journey to Lord’s for the Ireland Test earlier this month. International grounds have also prepared back-up surfaces, in case there is any interference with the designated pitch for a given game.
