The ICC World Cup final was briefly interrupted on Sunday as a pro-Palestinian demonstrator in India climbed over security barriers to enter the pitch and give celebrity batsman Virat Kohli a cuddle.
The incident occurred during the 14th over of India’s innings. The young protester, who wished to remain anonymous, went onto the pitch of the 132,000-seat mega-stadium in Ahmedabad, western India. He was wearing a face mask in the colors of the Palestinian flag and a T-shirt bearing the phrases “Stop Bombing Palestine” and “Free Palestine.” Running up to Kohli, the protester put his arm around the batsman’s shoulders, causing him to turn away in an attempt to get away from him.
Security guards led him off the field, and play quickly resumed. According to India Today, the youth, who was also in possession of a rainbow flag, was subsequently escorted to the Chandkheda Police Station. A video shared by the Indian news agency ANI depicted the intruder being taken to the police station, identifying himself as John from Australia. He explained that he ventured onto the pitch to meet Kohli and express his support for Palestine.
#WATCH | Gujarat: The man who breached the security & entered the field during the India vs Australia Final match, says, "My name is John…I am from Australia. I entered (the field) to meet Virat Kohli. I support Palestine…" pic.twitter.com/5vrhkuJRnw
— ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2023
On October 7, Hamas launched an unexpected assault on Israel from Gaza, resulting in the reported death of 1,200 Israelis and the capture of over 200 hostages. In response, Israel initiated a blockade on the Gaza Strip and carried out a severe offensive, leading to the deaths of more than 12,000 Palestinians, including 5,000 children. Despite the increasing casualties and the ongoing threat to civilians in Gaza, Israel has consistently rejected calls for a ceasefire. India, a supporter of an independent Palestinian state, has criticized Hamas and delivered aid to Egypt for civilians in the besieged Gaza Strip.
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