PM Modi arrives to watch World Cup final after security breach at pitch
Sunday, 19 November 2023 (19:44 IST)
Ahmedabad: Prime MInister Narendra Modi has arrived at the largest stadium in the world named after him to watch the high-octane finals of the ICC Men's World Cup between India and Australia here on Sunday.
Australia Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles also arrived in the city to watch the finale. He was received by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at the airport.
Before arriving in the stadium, Modi wished Team India ahead of the final match against Australia. He Xed, "All the best Team India!140 crore Indians are cheering for you. May you shine bright, play well and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship."
Earlier, a pro-Palestine supporter invaded the pitch and tried to embrace star Indian batsman and former team captain Virat Kohli during the match.
The incident took place in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and before Modi's arriva; at the venue.
"Stop bombing Palestine" was written on the front of the shirt worn by the intruder, who later identified himself as John, from Australia. On the back of his shirt was written "Free Palestine". Moreover, a Palestinian flag was printed on the mask which he wore.
The incident took place during the 14th over of the Indian innings, when Kohli and K L Rahul were engaged in consolidating things with a measured partnership.
Security personnel, however, moved in soon and escorted John out of the ground.
Following the breach, the final match resumed at the bustling stadium. Later, posing to queries from journalists, the youth said "I am John... from Australia. I entered (the ground) to meet Virat Kohli... I support Palestine".
According to reports, the youth has been taken to a police station.
On October 7, a militant organisation Hamas launched a multi-pronged assault on southern Israel, which triggered a military confrontation between Israel and the group from the Gaza Strip.
After a prolonged aerial bombardment campaign on Gazan targets, the Israeli military launched a massive ground invasion of Gaza as payback. Thousands of Palestinians and Israelis have been killed in the conflict
Meanwhile, India have pushed Australia on the backfoot by picking up three early wickets as they are India's 241 runs target on a very difficult pitch.
Sent in to bat, India scored 240 all out with Virat Kohli and KL Rahul scoring half-tons. (UNI)
