• Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya and other cricketers reacted with grief to devastating Ahmedabad plane crash on June 12.

  • An Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

From Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya: Tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad leaves cricketers heartbroken
Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma (Image Source: X)

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In a devastating aviation disaster, an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at around 2:00 PM.

Air India flight AI171 crashes after takeoff from Ahmedabad

The Boeing aircraft, operating as Flight AI171, was reportedly carrying 242 passengers and crew members when it rapidly lost altitude and crashed in the Meghaninagar area, located near the airport. Thick black smoke filled the skies and several explosions were heard as flames engulfed parts of the wreckage. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the aircraft, moments after becoming airborne, began descending abnormally and eventually crashed into a residential locality.

Emergency sirens blared across the area as fire trucks, ambulances, and rescue teams rushed in. Civilians also tried to assist in rescue efforts amid the debris and smoke. Several injured individuals were immediately taken to the City Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad. Local authorities are yet to confirm the number of fatalities, but multiple casualties are feared. The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue.

Air India also took to social media to confirm the incident and provide initial information:

“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest on http://airindia.com and on our X handle,” the airline posted.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to lead the investigation into the cause of the crash, with teams already dispatched to the site.

Reactions from cricketers: India’s sporting icons express grief

1. Harbhajan Singh: A voice of deep anguish

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his grief:

“I am utterly shocked and deeply anguished to learn about the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and their families who are enduring unimaginable pain and loss. In moments like these, words feel so inadequate, but I hope that those affected find strength, courage, and support. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this tragedy,”

Harbhajan’s message reflects the overwhelming sense of helplessness in the face of such human loss and stands as a heartfelt tribute to those affected.

2. Yusuf Pathan: Grief from a local hero and leader

Yusuf Pathan, former Indian cricketer and current Lok Sabha MP, expressed shock, especially as the tragedy struck his home state of Gujarat:

“Very shocked to hear about the #AirIndia Ahmedabad–London flight incident near Ahmedabad airport. Praying for the safety of all passengers and crew,”

His post reflects both his political and personal connection to the people of Gujarat, amplifying the sense of local mourning.

3. Irfan Pathan: A brother’s sorrow for his homeland

Irfan Pathan, Yusuf’s younger brother and another former India star, wrote:

“Deeply saddened by the Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad today. Prayers for the passengers, crew, and their families,”

As someone born and raised in Vadodara, Gujarat, Irfan’s empathy for the victims resonates strongly with those familiar with the region and its people.

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4. Suryakumar Yadav: Captain speaks for the nation

Current India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed his sorrow via Instagram, saying:

“Shocked to hear about the tragic plane crash of the Air India Ahmedabad, London flight. Thoughts and prayers to all the lives lost. Wishing for safety of every resident staying in that affected area,”

Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav (Image Source: Instagram)

His message also acknowledged the danger posed to civilians in the Meghaninagar area, showing concern beyond just the passengers on board.

5. Rashid Khan: Afghanistan star expresses solidarity

Gujarat Titans and Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan joined in offering his prayers, underscoring the emotional reach of the tragedy across international boundaries. Though not born in India, his connection to Gujarat Titans via the Indian Premier League (IPL) has created a strong emotional bond with the region and its people.

Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan (Image Source: Instagram)

6. Yuvraj Singh: Prayers for peace and strength

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh also reacted to the heartbreaking event:

“Heartbreaking news about the #AirIndia plane crash in Ahmedabad. Thoughts and prayers with the passengers, crew, and families affected. May they find strength in this difficult time,”

Yuvraj’s message, known for its emotional maturity, resonated with countless Indians who looked to sports stars for support during this dark moment.

7. Mohammed Shami joins nation in mourning

India’s star pacer Mohammed Shami, known for his emotional connection with the people of his country, also expressed his grief over the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad. Posting on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Shami wrote:

“Pray for all the families”

In just a few words, Shami captured the heartbreak and helplessness felt by millions across the nation. The broken heart emoji showcased the pain and sorrow shared by those watching the tragedy unfold.

8. Dhruv Jurel expresses shock

Young Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, who has rapidly become a prominent name in Indian cricket, also reacted emotionally to the devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Jurel posted:

“Numbed to hear about the unfortunate plane crash in Ahmedabad.  Praying for all the passengers, crew members, and students. Strength to their families,”

9. Hardik Pandya mourns Ahmedabad plane crash victims

India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya joined the nation in expressing grief after the horrifying Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Pandya wrote:

“Heartbreaking to hear about the crash in Ahmedabad. Prayers and strength to the families of those affected,” 

10. Rohit Sharma reacts to Ahmedabad plane crash

India’s former all-format captain and one of the most respected voices in world cricket, Rohit Sharma, took to Instagram Stories to express his sorrow over the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. In a heartfelt message, he wrote:

“Really sad and disturbing news from Ahmedabad. Prayers for all the lives lost and their families,”

Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma (Image Source: Instagram)

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