During the match between Pakistan and Australia in Bengaluru, a Pakistan fan engaged in a heated argument with a police officer who had asked him to refrain from chanting ‘Pakistan Zindabad’.
A viral video from the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match in Bengaluru captured a contentious exchange between a Pakistani cricket fan, donning the national team’s jersey, and a police officer. In the 45-second clip, the fan questioned why he’s being prohibited from chanting ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ in support of his team facing Australia when chants like ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ are permitted. The police officer responded that ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ is acceptable, but shouting ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ is not appropriate.
The fan, visibly perplexed, presses further, “Why not? I have come from Pakistan, Pakistan is playing, what else should I say?”
The Pakistan fan then retrieved his mobile phone and requested the police officer to provide a video statement explicitly stating that he was forbidden from uttering ‘Pakistan Zindabad.’ However, the officer chose not to respond to the question and attempted to disengage from the situation.
It's shocking and upsetting to see that people are being stopped from cheering "Pakistan Zindabad" at the game.
— Momin Saqib (@mominsaqib) October 20, 2023
This totally goes against what the sport is about!#CWC23 #PAKvsAUS #AUSvsPAK pic.twitter.com/iVnyFlNB09
The Pakistan cricket team has enjoyed substantial support during their warm-up and World Cup matches in Hyderabad. The fans’ fervent backing was particularly conspicuous during Pakistan’s historic six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka, where they successfully chased down the highest total in World Cup history, led by Captain Babar Azam.
Videos circulating on social media showcased fans responding to the DJ’s query of ‘Jeetega bhai jeetega’ with resounding chants of ‘Pakistan Jeetega’ (Pakistan will win). Babar Azam himself expressed his pleasant surprise at the experience, and social media users commended the spirited Hyderabad crowd for their support. Many encouraged other venues across India where Pakistan is scheduled to play to adopt a similar supportive attitude.
Last Updated on October 21, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter
