The Australian women’s cricket team seems to be finding some much-needed comfort after the recent disturbing incident in Indore. Star all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner’s wife, Monica Wright, shared a cheerful photo on Instagram showing the couple traveling to a café on Monday — with two Indian policemen escorting them on a motorbike right behind. Both Wright and Gardner were all smiles, as were the officers, one even flashing a peace sign, a light-hearted moment amid tense days.
Gardner later posted another picture from the café, capturing Wright indulging in a massive chocolate sundae. Her witty caption read: “Didn’t realize I married a child.”
The Australian team is currently stationed in Navi Mumbai, gearing up for their 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup semi-final against India at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on Wednesday. Their spirits, however, were tested in Indore, where two Australian players were molested by a local man while walking to a café. The police have since arrested the suspect.
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Following the incident, the BCCI has reportedly reinforced security measures for the visiting team. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia condemned the event, describing it as an “isolated case” but reaffirmed India’s reputation for hospitality and prompt action.
“It is a very condemnable but stray incident. India is known for its hospitality and care. We have zero tolerance for such incidents. We appreciate the State Police for their prompt action,” said Devajit Saikia. “We’ll revisit safety protocols to ensure tighter security if necessary.”
The Madhya Pradesh Police have invoked the National Security Act (NSA) against the 29-year-old accused, Aqeel Khan, also known as Nitra. The players were reportedly followed and harassed while walking to a café near their hotel.
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Thanks to the swift alert by the team’s security officer Danny Simmons, the accused was arrested quickly after a bystander provided his motorcycle number. Police registered the case under sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for molestation and stalking.
Additional DCP Rajesh Dandotiya confirmed an internal probe into the security lapse. Khan, a habitual offender with ten prior cases — including robbery, assault, molestation, and attempted murder — was recently released after a decade in prison.
