Sky Sports have reportedly hired bodyguards to protect their Australian pundits at Headingley, as tensions surrounding the Ashes series reach new heights.
The second Test at Lords saw an explosive reaction from English players and fans after Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey stumped Jonny Bairstow, with ex-Aussie captain and pundit Ricky Ponting being bombarded by fans while he stood on the outfield.
As a result, Sky have taken drastic action to ensure the safety of their employees during the third Test at Headingley, deploying their own security guards to look after ex-Aussie stars Mark Taylor and Mel Jones, reports the Daily Mail (via the Daily Star). Ponting is absent from the third Test as he holidays with his family in France.
While it is understood to be a precautionary measure, tempers even flared in the Lord's long room during the second Test. Three MCC members were suspended after clashes with Australia's players.
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An increased police presence will also be noticeable at Headingley, with particular focus on the raucous Western Terrace section and Just Stop Oil protestors who made an unwelcome appearance at Lords' and during Wimbledon.
England need to win at Headingley to keep their hopes of winning the Ashes alive, after the Lord's result saw them go 2-0 down in the series.
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