Indore, India – In a shocking incident that has raised concerns about the safety of women in public spaces, two Australian women cricketers were allegedly stalked and molested in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The incident occurred on Thursday, October 23, 2025, while the players were walking to a café near the Radisson Blu Hotel, where they were staying.
According to police reports, the two cricketers were on their way to a popular café in the Khajrana Road area, about 3 kilometers from their hotel, at approximately 11 a.m. when they were accosted by a man on a motorcycle. The accused, later identified as Aqeel Khan, 28, allegedly followed the players and touched one of them inappropriately before speeding away.
The players immediately contacted their team's security manager, Danny Simmons, who reported the incident to the local authorities. An FIR was registered at the MIG Police Station under sections 74 (assault or use of criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The Indore Police acted swiftly, launching an investigation and arresting the accused, Aqeel Khan, on Friday evening. According to police officials, a bystander had noted the motorcycle's registration number, which proved crucial in identifying and apprehending the accused. Additional DCP (Crime Branch) Rajesh Dandotiya stated that Aqeel has previous criminal cases registered against him, and further investigation is underway.
The incident occurred just a day after the Australian team defeated England by six wickets at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, in the ongoing ICC Women's Cricket World Cup. The Australian team has already qualified for the semi-finals. Following the incident, local authorities have assured increased patrolling near the team's hotel and training areas.
Cricket Australia (CA) released a statement confirming the incident and stating that the matter was being handled by the police. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) condemned the incident, calling it "very unfortunate" and stating that it brings disrepute to the sport. BCCI Vice-President Rajiv Shukla said that they would take all required precautions and appreciated the Madhya Pradesh police for their prompt action. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia added that the law should take its course to punish the accused.
The incident has cast a shadow over the Women's World Cup in Indore. The Australian team played South Africa on Saturday at the Holkar Stadium. This was Indore's final game of the event, with the semi-finals and final scheduled for Guwahati and Navi Mumbai.
