People gathered for an anti-immigrant protest in the UK city of Portsmouth were shocked to learn that the group they thought were asylum seekers were actually players from Pakistan’s under-19 cricket team.

The incident took place outside a Marriott Hotel in Portsmouth, where Pakistan’s youth cricket team is staying during their tour of England.

According to reports, reports were circulating on social media that the migrants were being bussed into the hotel, following which around 40 to 50 people gathered outside the hotel. Some protesters also covered their faces.

The incident took place at a time when Portsmouth witnessed intense protests and tension over the issue of asylum seekers coming through the English Channel a few days ago.

Reform UK councilor George Madgwick reached the spot and inquired about the situation from the hotel management. The hotel management told them that the people staying there are the players and staff of Pakistan’s under-19 cricket team. The coach of the team also met the counselor and submitted evidence regarding the identity of the team.

When the councilor informed the protestors outside of the fact, they accepted the explanation and left within a few minutes.

According to George Madgwick, the entire crowd dispersed within about five minutes and the situation was averted.

The Pakistan U-19 team is currently on a tour of England and is playing Tests and ODIs against England U-19.

After the incident, the England and Wales Cricket Board contacted the Pakistan Cricket Board to inquire about the well-being and safety of the players while the security of the team is also being reviewed during the rest of the tour.