Sunak responds as England cricket star carries Just Stop Oil protestor of pitch

Displaying his agility, Bairstow swiftly lifted one of the protesters off their feet and escorted them beyond the boundary before handing them over to stewards. His decisive intervention likely prevented a significant delay had the paint reached the pitch.

The other intruder, who caught the attention of England captain Ben Stokes, was intercepted by security personnel, while another individual was apprehended in the stands. All three were subsequently arrested.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated: “These sorts of selfish, guerrilla tactics that target events bringing joy to millions are exactly why the Government brought in new powers so the police can take swift action. The Prime Minister is pleased play was able to resume quickly and thanks security staff, the swift hands of Jonny Bairstow, and other England players who stepped in.”

Downing Street acknowledged that the situation at Lord’s was “unusual” when asked whether citizens should emulate Bairstow’s response to dealing with protesters.

In a conversation on BBC’s Test Match Special, commentator Jonathan Agnew remarked: “Jonny Bairstow’s dander was up there, he was like a flanker. Let’s hope this doesn’t happen again, let’s hope that’s the one attack on the Ashes this year.”

Although broadcasters refrained from highlighting the incident, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting made a playful reference during the morning session, joking on Sky Sports: “I didn’t want to say anything, but the one chance that’s come Jonny’s way, he’s held on to so far.”

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which owns Lord’s, strongly criticised the individuals involved. Guy Lavender, the MCC’s chief executive, stated: “MCC condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s pitch incursion and the behaviour of the protesters involved. Their actions not only endanger themselves and those who work at the ground but they have consistently shown complete disregard for the people who pay to attend events, not just here at Lord’s but around the country at other sporting venues.”

This is not the first time Just Stop Oil protesters have caused disturbances. They previously delayed England’s arrival for their Test match against Ireland on June 1 by blocking the team coach outside their Kensington hotel.

Just Stop Oil, the activist group responsible for the intrusion, shared on Twitter: “At 11 am, three Just Stop Oil supporters stormed the pitch at Lord’s Cricket Ground in a cloud of orange powder paint and disrupted the #Ashes2023 Second Test between England and Australia.”

In another instance, Just Stop Oil protesters disrupted the Gallagher Premiership final between Saracens and Sale at Twickenham last month when two individuals wearing the group’s T-shirts invaded the pitch during the first half and threw orange paint powder before being removed. A similar incident occurred at the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible in April.

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