In a recent incident that has drawn significant attention, Bangladeshi cricket superfan Shoaib Ali faced an unfortunate episode during the World Cup match between India and Bangladesh in Pune.
A video that quickly went viral depicted Shoaib Ali's cherished stuffed tiger toy being torn apart by spectators donning Indian cricket jerseys. This incident occurred after India, led by Rohit Sharma, clinched victory against Bangladesh at Pune's MCA Stadium on October 19.
The video distinctly shows an individual, wearing the Indian cricket team's jersey, pulling at the tiger toy's tail, leading to the stuffing being scattered. Another spectator, also in an Indian jersey, is seen laughing at the act. Shoaib, who is renowned for his Bangla Tiger outfit and his ritual of bringing his tiger toy to matches in support of Bangladesh, expressed his shock at the unexpected hostility from some Indian fans.
Taking to social media, Shoaib Ali shared the video, voicing his deep dismay. He highlighted his astonishment at such behaviour from a section of Indian cricket fans and emphasised the importance of maintaining the ethos of cricket as a sport of gentlemen. He advocated for mutual respect and decorum during such events.
India fans then took to Twitter to voice their disappointment and apologise for the mistakes of a small group of fans.
Interestingly, before this incident and the match against Bangladesh, Shoaib Ali had a heartwarming interaction with Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Upon spotting Shoaib, Rohit rolled down his car window and greeted him with a friendly, "Arey tu yaha agaya (Hey, you have come here as well!)."
Recounting the encounter, Shoaib Ali told the Daily Star, "I was waiting along with some other Bangladeshi fans outside the main gate of the stadium as the team was training inside the ground. Suddenly I spotted a blue car with Rohit Sharma in the driving seat. I shouted his name. The next moment, Rohit stopped his car and spoke to me. This is why he is a big player, he is a very down-to-earth person."
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