
A video capturing a heated exchange between a police officer and a passionate Pakistani cricket fan at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Men in Green’s crucial ODI World Cup 2023 match against Australia has gone viral on social media. In the video, a Pakistan supporter, donning his national team’s jersey, was seen arguing with the police officer about his right to cheer for his team in his own way.
Despite the fan’s explanation that he had traveled to India using a non-Pakistani passport, he questioned why he couldn’t chant ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ while it was acceptable to chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’. The policeman, however, maintained that the former was inappropriate, leading to a spirited conversation. The fan even asked the cop to state his stance on video, but the officer chose to avoid the situation and walked away.
Welcome to Modi India-
Apparently Pakistani fans who are from Pakistan aren't allowed to cheer for their own team for the match #PAKvsAUS
New rule- looks like no foreigners can come to our country and cheer for their own team even if their team not playing against India. pic.twitter.com/mZgk58CrBD
— Rohini Anand (@mrs_roh08) October 21, 2023
Despite this incident, the Pakistan cricket team has received warm gestures from Indian fans since their arrival in the country after seven years, a sentiment acknowledged by the players themselves. In the match against Australia, openers David Warner and Mitchell Marsh showcased exceptional performances, each scoring centuries and forming a remarkable 259-run partnership. Their efforts led Australia to a commanding total of 367/9. In response, Pakistan’s openers Abdullah Shafique (64) and Imam-ul-Haq (70) provided a strong start, creating a 134-run partnership. Despite their efforts, Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 305 in 45.3 overs, resulting in a 62-run victory for Australia.