World Cup: Cricket On Ground, Politics In Air During India Match

Geopolitics resurfaced at the Cricket World Cup on Saturday when political messages were flown over Headingley during India’s final group game against Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan innings was into its first hour when a plane moved over the stadium with a “Justice for Kashmir” message, news agency Reuters reported. During India’s chase, a plane towing a second message circled the stadium before disappearing.

“We are incredibly disappointed this has happened again,” the International Cricket Council (ICC) said in a statement.

Last week, a plane with “Justice for Balochistan” flew over the venue before Pakistan’s match against Afghanistan, triggering scuffles among a section of the fans.

“After the previous incident, we were assured by West Yorkshire Police there would not be repeat of this issue, so we are very dissatisfied it has happened again,” the ICC added.

“We do not condone any sort of political messages at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Throughout the tournament we have worked with local police forces around the country to prevent this type of protest occurring.”