ECB worried over Broad's safety in return Ashes after Lehmann's 'incitement' to Oz crowds

England is reportedly concerned over fears that bowler Stuart Broad's safety may be compromised during the return Ashes series in Australia this winter following Australian coach Darren Lehmann's 'incitement' to fans to 'send Broad crying away' over 'blatant cheating' allegations.

According to Metro.co.uk, Lehmann was fined 20 per cent of his match fee for the final Ashes Test, which is approximately 1700 pounds, by ICC for branding Broad a 'cheat' over his admitted decision not to walk during the Ashes opener at Trent Bridge.

Although the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are not worried about Broad's ability to handle the hostile reception guaranteed to him by the Australian crowd, the report said that they are concerned that Broad may be subjected to vigilante attacks off field while he is socialising with his teammates during the three-and-half month tour.

Signaling their concern, the ECB released a statement, which said that in supporting its players, management support staff and their families, no one in the game condones incitement of any kind, for which they will take all necessary steps to ensure safety for all the players on tour to Australia.

The ECB also welcomed the 'swift action' taken by the ICC against Lehmann and also noted Cricket Australia's (CA) acceptance of the sanctions handed down to him.