Molestation | In a disturbing turn of events that has cast a pall over the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025,
Two members of the 
Australian women’s cricket team were allegedly stalks and molestation while out for a casual walk in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
The incident, which unfolded on the streets of the cricket-loving city just days after Australia’s triumphant victory over England at the Holkar Stadium,
has sparked widespread outrage, swift police action, and heartfelt apologies from local authorities.
The Incident: A Morning Walk Turns Nightmarish
The harrowing episode occurred around 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025, along Khajrana Road in Indore.
The two players, whose identities have not been disclosed by Cricket Australia (CA) out of respect for their privacy,
had stepped out of their hotel, the Radisson Blu, for a routine jog and stroll to a nearby cafe called The Neighborhood
—approximately half a kilometer away.
What should have been a moment of respite following the high-stakes match against England,
the previous evening quickly escalated into a nightmare.
According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the women approaches by a man on a motorcycle who began stalking them aggressively.
In a brazen act, he touched one of the players inappropriately before speeding off.
The victims, shaken but composed, immediately alerted their team’s security manager, Danny Simmons.
A local resident intervened heroically, noting down the motorcycle’s registration number and contacting the police on the spot.
Simmons arrived shortly after, ensuring the players’ safe return to the hotel.
The matter was promptly escalates, with Simmons filing a formal complaint at the MIG Police Station later that evening,
assisted by Rohit Pandit, Chief Administrative Officer of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA).
CCTV footage from the area played a crucial role in identifying the suspect, leading to his arrest within 24 hours.
Swift Justice: Accused in Custody
Indore Police acted decisively, apprehending the accused, identified as Aqeel Khan,
(also reported as Akil Khan in some accounts), a local resident of the Khajrana area, on Friday evening.
Khan, who has prior criminal cases registered against him,
books under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for stalking, molestation, and sexual harassment.
Additional DCP (Crime Branch) Rajesh Dandotiya confirmed the arrest, stating,
“A case was registered on Thursday night, and the accused has been taken into custody under an intensive strategic operation. Further investigation is underway.”
Local BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma condemned the act vehemently, declaring, “This incident has shamed Indore. Whether the daughter is from Australia or Indore, her safety is our responsibility.
Strict action will be taken, and NSA proceedings will be initiated against the perpetrator.”
The rapid response from law enforcement has been lauded, though it underscores the need for heightened vigilance in public spaces, especially for international visitors.
Official Reactions: A United Front Against Misogyny and Molestation
Cricket Australia broke its silence on Saturday morning with a concise yet poignant statement:
“CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore.
The matter was reported by team security to police who are handling the matter.”
The board emphasized its commitment to player welfare, noting that counseling and support services have been made available to those affected.
The MPCA, hosts of the World Cup matches at the iconic Holkar Stadium, expressed profound regret in a detailed communique.
MPCA President Mahaanaryaman Scindia stated, “We are deeply saddened, shocked, and appalled by this unfortunate incident. No woman should have to endure such behavior.
It is extremely painful for the players, for the sports community, and for the people of Indore.”
The association extended “sincere apologies to the Australian Women’s team for this deeply distressing and unfortunate incident while in our city known for safety, grace, and hospitality.”
They also highlighted Indore’s reputation as a secure venue for international teams and vowed to review security protocols, including how players venture outside the cordon without escort.
Pandit added a reflective note: “It is indeed an unfortunate incident in a city that is otherwise considered very safe for women.
Several aspects need to be examines, particularly how the players left the hotel premises without informing the security team.”
Molestation : Safety Concerns in Women’s Sports
This incident arrives at a sensitive juncture for women’s cricket, as the World Cup
—co-hosted across multiple Indian cities—celebrates the sport’s growing global footprint.
Australia, already through to the semifinals after a six-wicket win over England on October 22,
faced South Africa in Indore on Saturday in their final group-stage fixture.
Remarkably, the players demonstrated remarkable resilience, taking the field undeterred, a testament to their mental fortitude amid the turmoil.
Yet, the event has reignited debates on women’s safety in India, a nation passionate about cricket but grappling with persistent gender-based violence issues.
Activists and former players have called for systemic reforms, including mandatory gender-sensitization training for event staff and enhanced street-level security for athletes.
As one social media user poignantly noted, “Cricket unites us, but such acts divide and shame us. Time for real change.
“For the Australian contingent, led by stalwarts like Alyssa Healy and Ellyse Perry, the focus now shifts to the knockout stages in Guwahati and Navi Mumbai.
Their poise in the face of adversity not only honors the spirit of the game but also amplifies a vital conversation on respect and protection for women in sport.
As Indore bids farewell to the World Cup—its final match concluded today
—the city and the cricket world alike hope this dark chapter serves as a catalyst for safer tomorrows.
The players’ courage, and the solidarity shown by all stakeholders, remind us that while boundaries may fall on the field, the fight for dignity knows no limits.
This article is based on official statements and reports from Cricket Australia, Indore Police, and the MPCA. Our thoughts remain with the affected players as they continue their campaign.
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