Ahmedabad police roll out extensive security measures, including holding areas and anti-drone systems, ahead of the India–New Zealand T20 World Cup final

More than 3,000 police personnel, around 1,000 home guards and multiple specialised security units have been deployed for the T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Addressing reporters ahead of the match, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik said extensive security arrangements had been completed for the high-profile clash at the world’s largest cricket stadium.
“As part of the bandobast, over 3,000 police personnel and about 1,000 home guards have been deployed,” Malik said.
For the first time during a match at the stadium, holding areas have been created near Gates 1 and 2, slightly towards the main road, to prevent overcrowding and reduce any potential risk of a stampede.
“Although such an incident has never happened here, we have set up these holding areas as an additional precaution,” Malik added.
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Senior officers will oversee the arrangements at the venue, including a Joint Commissioner of Police, 12 Deputy Commissioners of Police and officers of various ranks stationed around the stadium.
Authorities have also introduced advanced surveillance measures for the match. Three anti-drone systems have been deployed, along with eight Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) teams. Police conducted a rehearsal on Saturday to review the arrangements.
With thousands of fans expected to attend the final, the police commissioner urged spectators to use public transport to ease congestion around the stadium.
“Use buses or the Metro so that you can reach the stadium easily,” he said, adding that transport services would operate late into the night to help fans return home after the match.
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Special measures have also been put in place for women spectators. Female police personnel will assist with security duties, including frisking female attendees, while male staff will handle checks for men.
Authorities have also implemented arrangements inside the stadium to prevent spectators from entering the playing area during the match, with a dedicated system being monitored by senior officers.
Malik also warned against illegal ticket sales, stating that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in black-marketing. Two individuals have already been arrested for allegedly selling match tickets illegally.
Defending champions India will face New Zealand in the high-stakes final, with the Men in Blue aiming to retain the T20 World Cup title and claim the trophy for a third time.
Published: 08 Mar 2026, 06:30 pm IST
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