England's wicketkeeper, Jonny Bairstow, was commended by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his quick response in removing a Just Stop Oil protester from the pitch during the second Ashes Test at Lord's. Bairstow took matters into his own hands as two activists attempted to disrupt the match by brandishing orange paint dust.
Bairstow swiftly approached one of the protesters, lifted him off his feet, and carried him over the boundary edge before handing him over to the stewards. His prompt action potentially prevented a significant delay to the proceedings if the paint had reached the wicket.
England captain Ben Stokes also intercepted another protester, while security staff apprehended a third individual in the stands. All three were subsequently arrested.
An official spokesperson for the Prime Minister acknowledged the incident, stating: "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."
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Downing Street emphasized the unusual circumstances at Lord's and responded to queries regarding whether citizens should follow Bairstow's lead in confronting protesters. The Prime Minister's official spokesperson added: "I think, obviously, there is a reason we empowered the police to take action, and that's what we see day-to-day. Obviously these were unusual circumstances."
During the incident, commentator Jonathan Agnew commented on BBC's Test Match Special, remarking: "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."
While broadcasters generally refrained from highlighting the disturbance, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting cheekily referred to it during the morning session on Sky Sports, joking: "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 Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests of the protesters on Twitter, stating: "We are aware of protesters on the Lord's Cricket Ground pitch today, Wednesday, 28 June. Police have arrested three people and taken them into custody."
Guy Lavender, the chief executive of the Marylebone Cricket Club condemned the pitch incursion and the behavior of the individuals involved. Lavender expressed his concern for the safety of those present, emphasizing the protesters' disregard for the paying spectators attending not only Lord's but also other sporting venues across the country.
Just Stop Oil, the activist group responsible for the disruption, posted on Twitter: "At 11am, 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."
This is not the first time Just Stop Oil protesters have caused disruptions. They previously delayed England's arrival for a Test against Ireland on June 1 by blocking their team coach outside their Kensington hotel. Bairstow had shared a picture of the incident on his Instagram story, drawing attention to it.
Last month, Just Stop Oil protesters also managed to disrupt the Gallagher Premiership final between Saracens and Sale at Twickenham. Two men wearing Just Stop Oil T-shirts invaded the pitch during the first half, hurling orange paint powder before being removed.
Another incident occurred at the Crucible during the World Snooker Championship in April, further highlighting the disruptive nature of the activist group.
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