Security breach in World Cup final : Pro-Palestine youth invades pitch, tries to embrace Virat Kohli
Sunday, 19 November 2023 (18:50 IST)
Ahmedabad: In a serious security breach, a pro-Palestine supporter invaded the pitch and tried to embrace star Indian batsman and former team captain Virat Kohli during the ongoing World Cup final match between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium here on Sunday.
The incident took place in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and before the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the venue to watch the big match.
"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. (UNI)
