Ashes: Spectator charged over pig incident at Gabba

Brisbane, Nov 22 A spectator at the Gabba cricket stadium here has been charged after an aborted bid to release a pig on the field during day one of the first Ashes Test between England and Australia here Thursday.

The man was stopped by police from releasing the pig on the field and taken to a nearby police station where he was charged with animal cruelty offences, reports Xinhua. The pig was taken to the veterinary clinic and treated for dehydration.

Some reports suggested the pig had “Broad” written on its side, in reference to English bowler Stuart Broad.

About 31 years ago, a pig with the names “Botham” and “Eddie” written on its sides was brought into the Gabba and set loose by fans during a one-day match, in reference to England players Ian Botham and Eddie Hemmings.

The pig smuggled into #ashes at the Gabba is being cared for at the RSPCA. He's badly in shock @9newbrisbane pic.twitter.com/Tt2oipBXhT

— Joel Dry (@JoelDry9) November 22, 2013