• A fan invaded the pitch during the ODI World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia.

  • The fan went on to hug Virat Kohli before he was detained by the stadium security.

ODI World Cup 2023: Pitch invader breaches security to hug Virat Kohli during IND vs AUS final
A fan breached security during IND-AUS CWC 2023 final (Image Source: Twitter)

In a stunning turn of events during the ODI World Cup 2023 final clash between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium, a pitch invader breached security protocols, rushing onto the field to embrace former Indian captain Virat Kohli.

A massive security breach

The incident occurred during the 14th over of the match, creating a temporary disruption in the highly-anticipated showdown. The daring pitch invasion took an unexpected political turn as the fan donned a ‘Free Palestine’ T-shirt, raising questions about the motive behind the security breach.

The invader managed to reach Kohli, hugging him before being promptly detained by the stadium security personnel. Despite the breach, the security team acted swiftly to remove the fan from the ground, ensuring the safety of the players and the resumption of the match without further delay.

Here is the video:

Australian bowling dominance limits Indian batters

Before the security breach, the match witnessed an intense battle between bat and ball. Australian skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to field, putting the Indian batting line-up to the test. Rohit Sharma provided a solid start with a quickfire 47 runs off 31 balls.

Also READ: WATCH – Travis Head takes a sensational catch to dismiss Rohit Sharma in IND vs AUS final – ODI World Cup 2023

Facing a challenging Australian bowling attack, Indian batters found it difficult to build partnerships. Virat Kohli continued his stellar form, contributing a crucial 54 runs off 63 balls before falling victim to Cummins. KL Rahul took charge, registering a resilient 66 runs from 107 balls with a lone boundary to his credit.

Mitchell Starc emerged as the standout bowler for Australia, claiming three wickets for 55 runs in his 10-over spell. Cummins and Josh Hazlewood provided valuable support, securing two wickets each (2/24 and 2/60, respectively).

Also READ: WATCH – IAF’s Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team wows with a dazzling air show at Narendra Modi Stadium – ODI World Cup 2023 final, IND vs AUS

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Featured ODI World Cup Virat Kohli

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.