By IANS,
Chennai : Chennai Open tennis organisers have sought the advice of England cricket board’s security expert Reg Dickason who oversaw the arrangements during the recent cricket Test series between India and England.
India’s only ATP tournament will have a strong security cover, with organisers not willing to take any chance in wake of the Nov 26 Mumbai terror attack.
Justifying the tight security, Dickason said: “Security for cricket was enhanced because of the spectator support and the number of entry and exit points. We conducted a pre-event check in formalising the security arrangements.
“We will give basic security advice to the tennis players as well. We do not differentiate amongst the overseas or Indian players. Security will be in place for everyone.”
Ravi Krishnan, consultant to the IMG, the owners of the ATP Chennai Open, said there was no official request from the ATP or any player nor were any concern or fears expressed on security matters.
“Not one communication came from any player or the ATP. We took the step because of the environment that we are living in today. No one expressed hostility or any concern.
“Tennis is an individual sport. The players come individually for tournaments throughout the world. As soon as they lose, they leave the city. Nevertheless, security is an important aspect.”
Krishnan said he was in touch with the ATP in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Mumbai.
“We were in touch with the ATP from the time of Mumbai attack. To be fair to them, the ATP responded in favour of additional security arrangement as it also satisfies the players on tour.”