A protester is winning praise on social media for running onto the field during the India vs Australia World Cup final while wearing a shirt that said ‘FREE PALESTINE’. The protester was seen standing next to Indian cricket player Virat Kohli and waving the Palestine flag.
Wow. #CWC2023Final #FreePalestine pic.twitter.com/87wyshqwc7
— Sana Kazmi (@sanakazmi) November 19, 2023
In a clip released by Indian media publication ANI News, the protester revealed his name was John, and that he was an Australian citizen. He supported the Palestine cause.
#WATCH | Gujarat: The man who breached the security & entered the field during the India vs Australia Final match, says, “My name is John…I am from Australia. I entered (the field) to meet Virat Kohli. I support Palestine…” pic.twitter.com/5vrhkuJRnw
— ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2023
Twitter users hailed John as the real ‘Player Of The Tournament’, congratulating him for taking a defiant stand.
disrupt every normal!! let no space remain that does not acknowledge the genocide. major power to this incredible person & their courage ✊ pic.twitter.com/BKc6f5LTBy
— Mehar Khursheed (@curlistani) November 19, 2023
Indian users have announced they are willing to fund legal aid to help John if he is arrested.
If this kid requires any legal assistance we’ll provide it pro bono. If there is a fine we’ll fund it someway or the other. The kids are alright. #FreePalestine #WorldcupFinal https://t.co/LyMkWIxKDP
— Anas Tanwir (@Vakeel_Sb) November 19, 2023
STOP BOMBING PALESTINE. he walked. he met virat. told the world india stands with palestine. infront of millions. and the prime minister narendra modi. that’s a star. pic.twitter.com/gqgpm80UMM
— s (@yoongienthusias) November 19, 2023
The best player of the tournament and Virat Kohli. pic.twitter.com/Blk2me0zKS
— kazmi. (@HaayeShabbir) November 19, 2023