The 2023 World Cup final was halted for a few minutes after a pro-Palestine supporter ran through the ground during India’s innings against Australia in Ahmedabad on Sunday (November 19).
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From 76-1, India were reduced to 81-3 in the final before KL Rahul and Virat Kohli got together to steady the innings. Rahul was ready to face the fourth ball of the 14th over, by Adam Zampa, when a pitch intruder entered the field of play, running towards Kohli.
The television cameras panned away from the incident as stewards ran towards the intruder to escort them out of the field. Images later confirmed that the protester was wearing a t-shirt with the message at the front reading “Stop bombing Palestine” as the country continues to be bombed by Israeli forces. There was another message, “Free Palestine”, inscribed on the back.
According to the latest reports, the local police have arrested the individual.
The break allowed the two batters to converge and have a conversation, as the run rate dipped following two quick wickets. By the 18th over, India were 107-3, adding 26 runs in 7.4 overs, with Kohli on 35 off 37 and Rahul batting on 15 in 30 deliveries.