Two Just Stop Oil protestors ran out of the Grandstand and onto the outfield just as Stuart Broad began to bowl the second over. They sprinkled the square with the group’s distinctive orange powder but not the playing surface.
activists disrupt second Ashes Test: Bairstow took away one of the protesters from the playing field, while officials apprehended the other one.
A third demonstrator was tackled before reaching the outfield.
Spectators booed the demonstrators as stewards escorted them away.
Later, the Metropolitan Police reported making three arrests.
Play resumed with Broad bowling from the Nursery End after a brief pause when ground officials cleared the orange powder.
The group Just Stop Oil, which opposes additional oil and gas exploitation in the North Sea, has interfered with a number of athletic events, including the British Formula One Grand Prix and the Premiership rugby union championship.
At the World Snooker Championship, protesters have thrown orange powder on the green baize and tied themselves to goalposts during Premier League football games.
Furthermore, Just Stop Oil delayed the team bus carrying England to Lord’s for the one Test against Ireland earlier this month.
Cricket and Environmental Activism Clash: Disruptive Protests Prompt Controversial Anti-Protest Powers in the UK
“Cricket is a significant component of our national heritage, but how can we enjoy England vs. Australia when much of the cricketing world is turning into an unfit place for humans to live in?” a Just Stop Oil representative asked.
It’s time for cricket fans and everyone else who recognises the gravity of the situation to take to the streets and demand that this criminal, illegitimate administration take action.
Rishi Sunak’s spokeswoman stated that the UK Prime Minister expressed his pleasure at the quick resumption of play and extended his thanks to the security staff, Jonny Bairstow for his swift action, and other England players who intervened.
Following years of disruptive demonstrations by environmental activists, the government of the United Kingdom controversially handed new anti-protest powers to police agencies early this year.
Sunak’s representative continued, “These kinds of self-centered, guerilla tactics that target occasions bringing joy to millions of people are precisely why the government brought in new powers so the police can take swift action.”
Guy Lavender, the chief executive of Marylebone Cricket Club, declared that he “condemns in the strongest possible terms” the deed.