TLP supporter grabs Rachin Ravindra [Source: AP]
In a scary incident, New Zealand's premier batter Rachin Ravindra was shell-shocked as a pitch invader hugged him against his wish during the ongoing match between New Zealand and Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The stylish southpaw had a memorable outing in the crucial encounter, scoring a magnificent century during the run-chase.
TLP Supporter Invades Pitch As Tension Prevails In Rawalpindi
While Rachin Ravindra's exquisite stroke-play amazed the Rawalpindi crowd, Rachin was stunned for some moment as an intruder grabbed him from behind after invading the playing area. According to AP, he was a supporter of Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP), an Islamist party banned by the government in 2021.
The intruder hugged Rachin and waved a picture of the TLP leader Saad Rizvi before the security personnel caught him and took him out of the ground.
The development comes as a shocker amid reports of potential terrorist attacks in Pakistan during the Champions Trophy. Although the guards instantly resolved the matter, the invasion raised serious security concerns in Rawalpindi.
NZ On The Verge Of A Clinical Victory
Regarding the match, New Zealand are cruising towards another emphatic win in the Champions Trophy. Chasing a modest target of 237 runs, New Zealand were 214 for five in 41.4 overs, with Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell batting in the middle.