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As military tensions escalate sharply between India and Pakistan following recent cross-border attacks, prominent Indian cricketers have come forward to salute the Indian Armed Forces for their courage and resilience. The ongoing conflict, sparked by the April 23 Pahalgam terrorist attack and subsequent military strikes, has led to heightened security concerns and the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for at least one week.
Virat Kohli, former captain and cricket icon, took to Instagram to express solidarity with the armed forces, writing, “We stand in solidarity with, and salute our armed forces for fiercely protecting our country in these difficult times. We are forever indebted to our heroes for their unwavering bravery and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifices they and their families make for our great nation.”
Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah echoed these sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Grateful to our armed forces for their courage and bravery. We salute them and remain forever in their debt for everything that they do to keep us safe.”
Grateful to our armed forces for their courage and bravery. We salute them and remain forever in their debt for everything that they do to keep us safe 🇮🇳
— Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) May 9, 2025
Other notable cricketers including Suryakumar Yadav, Ajinkya Rahane, Shubman Gill, Virender Sehwag and many other also paid tribute to the military through social media posts, highlighting the sacrifices made by soldiers on the frontline.
Massively proud of our forces and their resilience. You are the reason we stay unharmed, at our homes. Big salute to your strength and determination in protecting us at borders. We thank you. Jai Hind 🇮🇳
— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) May 9, 2025
No terrain is too tough to be conquered. No mission is too daring to be impossible for the Indian Armed Forces.
Our forces stand tall — undaunted and unmatched.
Saluting the valor of our forces. You make us proud every single day.#OperationSindoor #IndiaFightsPropaganda pic.twitter.com/npExp2n2hH— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) May 9, 2025
Nation is above all in such times. Our soldiers whose valiant efforts ensure safety to us, and their families who make such sacrifices for the nation, we pray for you and for all. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/LncMD9hGnU
— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) May 9, 2025
We stand united in gratitude for our armed forces who are risking their lives at the frontlines to defend our borders and protect the sanctity of our motherland. Their courage is India's pride 🙏🏻 🇮🇳 Jai Hind!
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) May 9, 2025
So proud of our armed forces, saluting their bravery to keep us all safe. Jai Hind 🇮🇳
— Krunal Pandya (@krunalpandya24) May 9, 2025
War has been chosen by Pakistan when they had an opportunity to keep quiet.
They have escalated to save it’s terrorist assets, speaks so much about them.
Our forces will reply in the most appropriate manner, a manner Pakistan will never forget.— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) May 8, 2025
I have seen many United outfits in my sporting life, but this is the first time I am seeing a 1.5 billion-strong India United take the field, led by our magnificent Armed Forces and captained by the G.O.A.T., Narendra Modi Ji and his government. Take a bow. Jai Hind 🇮🇳…
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) May 9, 2025
In times of challenge, the strength of a nation lies in its unity. The Indian Army shows us every day what it means to protect, serve, and stand strong. Let’s stand together, support our forces, and ensure peace for all🙏🏻
Jai Hind 🇮🇳— Kuldeep yadav (@imkuldeep18) May 9, 2025
#JaiHind 🇮🇳🕉️🙏 pic.twitter.com/2f6epni9hu
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) May 9, 2025
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India-Pakistan conflict intensifies
The conflict intensified after Pakistan launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along India’s western border, which the Indian army successfully repelled. Both nations have accused each other of ceasefire violations and cross-border aggression, resulting in casualties on both sides and raising fears of further escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
The Indian government continues to call for international support to pressure Pakistan to cease its alleged support for terrorism, while the armed forces remain vigilant in defending the nation’s sovereignty. The cricket fraternity’s unified tribute underscores the nation’s collective respect and gratitude for the armed forces during this critical period.
