Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium witnessed an unexpected interruption during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match between Bangladesh and New Zealand on February 24, as a pitch invader stormed the field, briefly halting play. The incident, which occurred during New Zealand’s chase in the second innings, added an unusual twist to an already thrilling encounter.
Pitch invader hugs Rachin Ravindra
The drama unfolded during New Zealand’s innings, with the Black Caps steadily pursuing Bangladesh’s total of 236. As the players prepared for the next over, a lone spectator breached the stadium’s security perimeter and sprinted onto the pitch. The invader made a beeline for New Zealand’s star batter, Rachin Ravindra, who was unbeaten and steering his team toward victory.
The individual also managed to reach Ravindra and briefly hugged him from behind, catching the 25-year-old off guard. Ravindra, visibly startled but composed, stepped away as security personnel rushed onto the field. The invader was quickly tackled and escorted off the pitch, bringing the brief disruption to an end. Play resumed within minutes, but the moment left spectators and viewers buzzing.
What’s going on in Pakistan?#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/QrtbfROUP5
— IPL (@WatchIPLvideos) February 25, 2025
Also READ: Fans go crazy as Rachin Ravindra knocks Bangladesh and Pakistan out of Champions Trophy 2025 with his 4th ODI century
Rachin guides New Zealand to semifinal
Rachin, the unintended target of the invader’s attention, handled the situation with remarkable calm. The left-handed batter continued his innings unfazed after the interruption, smashing a brilliant century.
He went on to score 112 from 105 deliveries, guiding New Zealand to a 5-wicket victory in 46.1 overs. His knock included 12 fours and 1 six, earning him praise not just for his batting but also for his composure under pressure—both cricketing and otherwise.
The young Black Caps star also breached the 1000-run milestone and became the New Zealand batter with most centuries in ICC ODI events.
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