Monday’s Cricket World Cup match between Sri Lanka and Australia was hit by a dust storm which caused fans to run for cover as flying debris crashed into stands.
Advertising banners were among the objects ripped from their fastenings at BRSABVE Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, northern India, as a dust storm hit during the game.
Players were seen covering their eyes as the end of Sri Lanka’s innings was disrupted by the weather.
Videos circulating on social media showed the material tumbling down from the roof and landing among the seats, with some fans ducking for cover while others hot-footed it back to the concourse.
The scenes were followed by rain hitting between innings as both teams looked for their first win of the World Cup.
Sri Lanka reached 125 for no wickets before a stunning collapse saw them bowled out for 209.
Ekana stadium Lucknow
— Samyak Mordia (@SamyakMordia) October 16, 2023
Australia v. Sri Lanka pic.twitter.com/Z3ZasLsegx
Due to strong winds, hoardings are falling all over Lucknow's Ekana Stadium.
— Ali Taabish Nomani (@atnomani) October 16, 2023
Spectators running for safety.#CWC23 #AUSvSL #WorldCup2023 #Lucknow @BCCI @ICC pls remove these banners before the next match. pic.twitter.com/xxoqK775jK
Australia’s bid to finally get off the mark after back-to-back defeats to open the tournament was then set back due to rain hitting Lucknow before they could get their chase underway.
They made heavy weather of a small target before Josh Inglis made 58 and Glenn Maxwell (31) stayed put to see them home with nearly 15 overs to spare.
