India and Australia are currently facing off at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the Fifth Test of the Gavaskar Frontier Trophy. However, the fourth India vs Australia Test series has been overshadowed by a disturbing incident of racism at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). A viral video has emerged showing Australian fans hurling insults at Indian supporters during the Boxing Day Test last month, sparking outrage across social media.
In the clip, Australian fans can be heard shouting “Where's your visa?” to Indian spectators – a deeply offensive remark that has reignited the conversation about racism in cricket stadiums. The video, originally filmed during the Melbourne Test, resurfaced during the series finale in Sydney, forcing the issue back into the spotlight.
Racist songs incite anger
The video has sparked widespread condemnation from cricket fans and former players. Many called the behavior unacceptable, demanding stronger action from Cricket Australia and stadium authorities to curb racism at matches.
The incident is reminiscent of previous episodes of racial abuse faced by Indian players and fans in Australia. In Border-Gavaskar series 2021, Indian pacers Muhammad Siraj AND jasprit bumrah were subjected to racial taunts from the Sydney crowd.
Fans took to social media to express their frustration, with many labeling the chants “pure racism”.
Read also: Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma spark divorce rumors after unfollowing each other on Instagram
“Where’s your visa” pic.twitter.com/foVQFkFUqH
— auspill (@aus_pill) January 2, 2025
India's pitching battle in Sydney
Despite the off-field controversy, the fifth Test in Sydney remains evenly poised. Rishabh Pants ignited Day 2 with a stunning counter-attack, hitting the second-fastest half-century for INDIA in test cricket.
Pant reached his fifty in just 29 balls, with his explosive knock helping India build a crucial 145-run lead. His innings included some big knocks, with wicketkeepers showing no fear against Australia's fearsome bowling attack.
Pant's blistering knock ended on 61 off 33 balls when Pat Cummins took him out. However, it was Scott Boland who did the most damage to India's batting line-up, finishing with figures of 4-42.
At stumps on Day 2, India stood at 141/6, with Ravindra Jadeja AND Washington Sundar holding the fort. The visitors aim to set a competitive target on a tricky SCG pitch.
Bumrah's Uncertain Participation
There is still uncertainty if the captain stayed jasprit bumrah will play in the second round of Australia. Bumrah left the field for scans on Day 2 as he appeared to be struggling with discomfort.
If Bumrah remains unavailable, India's bowling unit will rely heavily on Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna to protect the target.
Stay updated with all the cricket action, follow Cricadium IN WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, telegramAND Instagram
Source link