The complexity of the situation has perhaps not been lost on the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), which yesterday had a wall (running parallel to the Chandigarh road) encircled with wire mesh.

"We haven't received any threat so far but a fortnight or so ago, I came across a news item that a Patiala Shiv Sena unit had threatened not to allow any match involving Pakistan to be played here. Still, no one has called up my office to say something to the effect," PCA secretary M.P. Pandove told Newsline.

He said the PCA has apprised the Roopnagar Deputy Commissioner and SSP on the need for preventive measures like round-the-clock vigil and strict checking at entry-points. "Policemen have been deployed at the stadium and all visitors are frisked before being let in," Pandove added.

A visit to the stadium revealed that a mere six to seven policemen were manning the stadium and the number of private security personnel, too, turned out less than expected. S.A.S. Nagar Superintendent of Police B.S. Randhawa, however, discounted fears, saying the policemen deputed were enough to guard the stadium. "We are keeping a close watch. If need be, we might raise the number but as of now, we don't plan to," he said.

A security chink, perhaps, could be the leasing of the banquet hall of the stadium and the B ground (rear-end) for marriage parties and other functions. Said Pandove: "We give these only when there are no matches. Only PCA members can hold parties, and if any incident takes place, the member is held responsible. We have to do so to generate revenue." He added that PCA would stop leasing the hall when the match date neared.