During the fourth Test match between England and India at Old Trafford in Manchester, a British-Pakistani cricket enthusiast was instructed to take off his Pakistan cricket team jersey.
Farooq Nazar, a journalist affiliated with a local Pakistani religious channel, informed Geo News after the event that he was left “shocked and traumatised” by the actions of the venue security.
Nazar recounted that security guards told him to either change his shirt or vacate the premises. He requested a written directive, but more stewards were summoned to address the situation. The only rationale provided by the stewards was that “it might annoy Indian fans.”
A video captures Farooq Nazar demanding written orders from security and asserting that he had not committed any offense, but his pleas were unheeded by security personnel.
“Can you give me the written order? I have paid for the ticket. I need it in writing before I comply,” Nazar is heard saying in the video. “I will not cover the jersey because I am representing the country. You can take me out by force. Everyone can film what you are doing to me. I have paid for the ticket. No Indian crowd complained about me,” he conveyed to several security individuals.
The journalist stated that a complaint regarding the incident has been lodged with the English Cricket Board and the local administration. The club has yet to issue any official statement on the matter. He told Geo News that no Indian fan had registered a complaint about him with security.
Nazar was subsequently removed from the venue for his refusal to remove the shirt.
This incident transpired on the final day of the fourth Test match between England and India. The Manchester Test concluded in a draw, with England holding a 1-2 lead in the 5-match series.
