One of the largest security operations in the history of English cricket is being planned for the World Cup match between India and Pakistan in Manchester next Tuesday.

Tournament organisers have already stated that any banners considered to be of a political or offensive nature will not be allowed into the ground. Extra police and stewards will be on duty to try to prevent post-match pitch invasions which have become a hallmark of this World Cup.

While police refused to give an estimate for the number of officers that will be on duty, Old Trafford officials confirmed that the extra cost will be met by the tournament organisers. All 22,000 tickets have been sold for the match, and the possibility of segregating the fans, in a bid to head off trouble, has been ruled out.

The captains of both teams have also voiced concerns over the post-match pitch invasions - especially given the history of India and Pakistan matches, where fans have occasionally clashed when the two teams are playing abroad.

India captain Mohammad Azharuddin said: "Even before the last wicket falls, players are thinking how to get back quickly to the pavilion. It's not the Pakistan players we fear, but the fans."