India and Australia are currently playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the fifth Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. However, India’s Fourth Test series against Australia has been overshadowed by a disturbing incident of racism at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). A viral video has emerged showing Australian fans directing abusive chants at Indian supporters during the Boxing Day Test last month, sparking outrage on social media.
In the video, Australian fans can be heard chanting “Where’s your visa?” to Indian spectators – a deeply offensive remark that has reignited the debate about racism on cricket grounds. The footage, originally filmed during the Melbourne Test, resurfaced during the series finale in Sydney, forcing the issue back into the spotlight.
Racist chants are infuriating
The video has drawn widespread condemnation from cricket fans and former players. Many have called the behavior unacceptable, demanding stronger action from Cricket Australia and stadium authorities to curb racism in matches.
The incident is reminiscent of previous incidents of racial abuse Indian players and fans have faced in Australia. In Border-Gavaskar 2021 series, Indian pacers Mohammed Siraj and jasprit bumrah were subjected to racist taunts from the Sydney crowd.
Fans took to social media to express their frustration, with many branding the chants “pure racism”.
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“Where’s your visa” pic.twitter.com/foVQFkFUqH
— auspill (@aus_pill) January 2, 2025
India flat battle in sydney
Despite the off-field controversy, the fifth Test in Sydney remains even. Rishabh pants lit up Day 2 with a stunning counter-attack, hitting the second-fastest half-century for India in test cricket.
Pant reached his fifty off just 29 balls, his explosive knock helping India build a crucial 145-run lead. His innings included several big hits, with the wicketkeeper batting having no fear of Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
Pandel’s terrific 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 4-42.
At stumps on Day 2, India were 141/6, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sudar holding the fort. The visitors aim to set a competitive target on a tough SCG pitch.
Bumrah’s participation uncertain
There is still uncertainty as to whether he will be the skipper jasprit bumrah will bowl in Australia’s second innings. Bumrah left the field for sweeps on Day 2 after appearing to struggle with discomfort.
If Bumrah remains unavailable, India’s bowling unit will rely heavily on Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna to defend the objective.
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2025-01-04 10:55:00
