After weeks of intense hype and off-field drama surrounding the ICC tournament, a group of Bangladesh cricket supporters arrived in Colombo to back Pakistan in their crucial fixture against India, expressing gratitude for Islamabad’s stance at the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The development comes amid heightened tensions and diplomatic exchanges that had cast uncertainty over aspects of the tournament. Despite the controversies, fans from Bangladesh traveled to Sri Lanka’s capital, waving Pakistani flags alongside their own and chanting slogans of support outside the stadium.
Speaking to local media, several supporters said they wanted to “stand with Pakistan” in appreciation of what they described as a principled position taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government at the ICC level. “Pakistan supported us when it mattered. Today we are here to support them,” one fan said.
The atmosphere in Colombo reflected a rare show of cross-border solidarity, with social media videos showing Bangladeshi and Pakistani fans celebrating together. Observers noted that cricket diplomacy continues to play a significant role in shaping public sentiment across South Asia, often transcending political differences.
While officials from the ICC have not formally commented on the fans’ gesture, the presence of Bangladeshi supporters at the venue has added a new dimension to the tournament’s narrative, one centered on regional camaraderie rather than controversy.
As Pakistan prepares for its upcoming clash, the unexpected backing from Bangladeshi fans has injected fresh energy into the stands, turning what began as a tense chapter into a moment of sporting unity.
