NEW DELHI: In a recent viral video, a Pakistani cricket fan faced an unusual situation at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Australia.
The fan, proudly sporting a Pakistan cricket jersey and holding a photo of former Prime Minister Imran Khan lifting the 1992 World Cup trophy, was approached by a stadium steward.
The official issued an ultimatum: surrender the photo or leave the premises. “Either you give it to me or you go home,” the steward is heard saying in the clip.
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The incident has sparked heated debate online, with fans questioning whether the steward’s actions were warranted.
Imran Khan, a legendary cricketer and captain of Pakistan’s historic 1992 World Cup victory, remains an iconic figure in cricket.
However, his political career has made him a polarizing figure internationally, and the display of his image in a public venue may have prompted the steward’s intervention.
This comes at a time when Khan’s political and legal battles dominate headlines. After being ousted from power in a no-confidence vote in 2022, Khan faces over 150 cases, including graft allegations involving state gifts.
While a Pakistani court recently granted him bail in one case, Khan remains entangled in multiple trials and convictions, some carrying hefty sentences.
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He has denied all charges, maintaining they are politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Pakistan cricket faces its own challenges. Recently, the national team suffered a 3-0 whitewash in a T20I series against Australia.
On the other hand, the country is looking forward to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. India is reluctant to send its team to Pakistan for the prestigious ICC tournament, prompting a standoff situation between the two nations.
Amid the uncertainties, the trophy tour, currently underway in Pakistan, aims to rekindle excitement among fans by travelling through cities like Islamabad, Abbottabad, and Karachi.