Bangalore bomb blasts no direct threat to CWG: Crosswhite

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April 19, 2010 08:55 IST

The low intensity bomb blasts before an IPL match in Bangalore that injured at least 15 people was not a direct threat to the Commonwealth Games (CWG) in New Delhi later this year, Australian Commonwealth Games Association chief executive Perry Crosswhite said.

Speaking at Australia's CWG track and field selection trials in Perth, Crosswhite said he had not been contacted by any athletes expressing concerns that the Bangalore attack would deter them from competing in New Delhi.

"These things continue to happen and they will continue all the way to the Games, but (security experts) don't see it as direct threat to the Games," Crosswhite said.

"It's just another example of unrest in the country and that part of the world and no one has claimed any responsibility," he added.

Crosswhite, however, said that the athletes and their family would have to be careful when they are in New Delhi for the October 3-14 Games.

"Bangalore is a fair way from Delhi but this is a dangerous part of the world. I think we have to think this will continue to happen. In India it happens all the time, but we don't hear about it all the time," he said.

"My view is that the team and the athletes will be well protected. But I think people that go to see the Games, to watch their partners and children compete, will have to be careful," Crosswhite added.

Two crude bombs exploded in quick succession outside the MA Chinnaswamy cricket stadium in Bangalore, minutes before Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians IPL match was to begin, leaving 15 persons injured.

A third crude bomb was found near Gate number 8 of the stadium.

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