WATCH : Mohammad Rizwan faces ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants from Ahmedabad crowd during India-Pakistan clash at ODI World Cup 2023

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin referred to the supporters’ attitude as “unacceptable” as recordings showed the crowd yelling “Jai Shri Ram” as Pakistan player Mohammad Rizwan entered the changing area at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad while playing in the India-Pakistan ODI World Cup 2023 match.

Udhayanidhi Stalin said on X, formerly known as Twitter, “India is renowned for its sportsmanship and hospitality. However, the treatment meted out to Pakistan players at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is unacceptable and a new low. Sports should be a unifying force between countries, fostering true brotherhood. Using it as a tool to spread hatred is condemnable.”

The footage captures the fans yelling “Jai Shri Ram ” towards the Pakistani wicket keeper-batter. This incident occurred when Rizwan was seen leaving the field for the changing area after making a 69-ball 49.

During his remarks during the toss, Pakistan captain Babar Azam received several jeers from the crowd. After India thrashed Pakistan by seven wickets, Virat Kohli, the former captain of India, gave Azam his autographed jersey.

Mixed feelings have been expressed in response to the Rizwan incident. Some people shared a video of Indian players being taunted by Pakistani fans in 2017 to defend the conduct of the Ahmedabad crowd. Meanwhile, a number of other people have also spoken out to protest the Ahmedabad fans’ behaviour, noting instances of Indian fans acting respectfully towards their bitter rivals.

Watch the video below: 

Mohammed Shami received ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants earlier this year

When supporters sang “Jai Shri Ram” in a Test match involving Australia and India earlier in the year, Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami encountered a similar situation.When the players approached the dugout following the day’s play, spectators could be heard shouting “Shami, Jai Shree Ram.” 

Fans unintentionally became rude and began acting that way despite being aware that Shami was a Muslim cricket player. Shami seemed unaffected by the shouting from the audience because she maintained her composure. The video has gained popularity on social media.